A few weekends ago, I found myself enjoying an unusually peaceful Sunday afternoon. My children, aged 10, 11, and 13, were completely occupied—snacking, tidying up, and watching Toy Story. I tiptoed into the kitchen, trying not to disrupt their blissful silence, only to realize: I don’t have to hover anymore! They’ve grown beyond the stage where my mere presence sends them into a panic.
I can confidently say I’m living in the golden age of parenting, and it’s fabulous. Here are ten reasons why this phase is truly the best:
- Cuddle Time is Still a Thing
Every now and then, they’ll join me for a cuddle—whether it’s early morning or the middle of the night. They fall asleep quickly, and if they don’t, they can shuffle back to their own beds without a fuss. - Myth-Busting is Done
No more worrying about the Tooth Fairy or other fictional characters! If I forget to leave money under their pillows, a quick apology and a couple of bucks solve the problem. Plus, the nightly elf relocation drama is now a shared sibling responsibility. - Dining Out is Fun Again
Taking them to restaurants is a delight. They’re hungry, really hungry! No more leftover bites of grilled cheese or mac and cheese haunting my meals—just pure enjoyment and empty plates. - Movie Nights Are Actually Enjoyable
We can watch movies uninterrupted. They’re independent enough to handle bathroom breaks without needing a chaperone, so I can sneak away without drama. - Quick Grocery Runs
A trip to the store is a breeze now. They can hop out of the car, open the door, and help carry bags—sometimes, I even leave them at home. Freedom! - Family Nights Are Still a Thing
Their social lives haven’t completely taken over yet. They’re still around on weekends, and we can have meaningful discussions about everything from politics to their beloved stuffed toys. - I’m Still the Smart One
They haven’t quite mastered the art of sneaking extra screen time or raiding my secret stash of chocolate. I’m still a step ahead, for now. - They Want to Hang Out
Even though I embarrass them sometimes, they still enjoy spending time with me. They laugh at my jokes (for now), and I can still tap into their silly side. - Communication is Key
They’re at a stage where they actually share their thoughts and feelings. Asking about their day doesn’t feel like pulling teeth anymore; a little bribery here and there works wonders! - Emotional Expressiveness
They articulate their feelings without throwing tantrums. We can have rational discussions, and while they may pout over a limited selection of Oreos, they know the rules without causing chaos.
I know this stage won’t last forever, so I’m soaking in every minute. Soon enough, they’ll be out with friends more often, and family dinners will be a rarity. For now, I’m savoring this sweet spot of parenting!
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