In the rapidly evolving landscape of childhood development, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the subtle remnants of early childhood that remain in a growing child. As children mature, significant transformations occur, and it is vital for caregivers to embrace these fleeting moments. At this juncture, I observe many changes in my son, Ethan, who is transitioning from his younger self into a more mature individual. Over the past year, he has shown considerable growth, particularly in his engagement with technology and the depth of his conversations. As he begins to understand the world around him, he asks more profound questions about life.
I am acutely aware of his growth, so I cling to the little things that characterize his childhood. For instance, he still envelops my waist in a hug when he desires something, and he continues to refer to me as “Mommy” whenever he excitedly shares insights about his favorite video game, Minecraft. Additionally, he remains comfortable taking bubble baths with his younger sibling, though he now opts for shorter durations.
During a recent shopping trip, Ethan demonstrated remarkable maturity by assisting me in selecting his school supplies. Unlike previous outings filled with exuberance and chaotic movements through the aisles, he followed the list diligently. He even playfully hid behind a clothing rack, reminiscent of his younger days, but he was calm when I declined the $79 backpack, showing understanding of our budget constraints.
Ethan now has the ability to access snacks stored high in the pantry, and he generously shares them with his little brother. He expresses a desire to choose his own outfits, albeit with a tendency to mix and match his favorite superhero colors. A recent moment that stood out was when he buried his head in my shoulder while watching a clip of Gertie from E.T. screaming in fear—a reaction he would never admit to, despite it being quite endearing.
Interestingly, Ethan still cherishes his crib blanket from infancy. While he doesn’t carry it around, he seeks it out whenever he feels tired or wants to relax during movie time. His playful nature remains intact, as evidenced by his giggles during haircuts when the clippers tickle his neck, and he eagerly anticipates the reward of a lollipop afterward. I must admit, there was a tender moment when he fell asleep on my shoulder while watching The Golden Girls. Just between us, let’s keep that our little secret.
Once apprehensive of water, Ethan has made strides this summer, confidently holding his breath and diving for sticks his father placed in the pool. His previous aversion to having his hair washed in the bathtub has transformed into indifference. Furthermore, an earlier fear of bugs, particularly moths and mosquito hawks, has evolved into curiosity, as he now attempts to catch them.
As the new school year approaches, I recognize that many more changes await us. It is my responsibility to prepare him for the world, equipping him with the skills to conquer his fears and stand independently. I understand that one day he will leave the nest, and I will ensure he is knowledgeable about life’s important lessons. For the present, however, I will savor the moments when he still calls me “Mommy”—a name that signifies our bond and the memories we share.
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In summary, recognizing and cherishing the small remnants of early childhood in our growing children is crucial. As they mature and embrace new experiences, it is our role to guide them while holding on to the precious moments that define their youth.