As a parent, I’ve reached that bittersweet moment when every Facebook memory that flashes across my feed brings a wave of nostalgia and tears. I feel compelled to share these moments because my little ones are growing up fast, and the memories of their babyhood are fading from our home.
My youngest is entering kindergarten this fall, and while he’s excited, I find myself feeling heartbroken. Time truly has a way of slipping through our fingers. I remember eagerly anticipating this phase of life, filled with independent children and peaceful afternoons while I worked. I value those quiet moments, yet now I understand the advice to “let them be little.”
Having young children is a fleeting experience. It often feels overwhelming in the moment, yet it comes to an abrupt end. I now find myself reflecting on why I didn’t fully embrace their littleness when I had the chance.
I’m not wallowing in regret, though. I’ve embraced this new parenting phase with more patience for those rare moments when their youth shines through. I find joy in reading one more story and take pleasure in preparing their lunches, even though they can do it themselves.
I finally grasp the essence of “let them be little.”
It means truly listening to their words because, one day, their adorable mispronunciations will fade from memory. Just the other morning, my youngest bounded into the room with his tousled hair and blanket, exclaiming, “Mommy! I slept weally good this night.” I’m determined to remember that charming mix-up of “really” and “this night.”
It also means accepting a slow pace when they need it. There will be plenty of days ahead filled with soccer games and rehearsals. I used to rush them, but now I’m content to let my 5-year-old meticulously arrange his Pokémon cards before we leave for a friend’s house. It gives me precious moments to cherish his toddlerhood before he’s off playing independently.
It’s about pleading for hugs and kisses, knowing that soon enough, those displays of affection will be reserved for private moments. It means constructing a fort when chores beckon or baking cookies simply for the joy it brings to my child.
Letting them be little signifies saying yes more often. It’s about placing their needs above my agenda, even when I don’t feel like watching another cartoon or making yet another trip to the park. It involves cutting crusts off sandwiches and helping them with their shoes, even when they can do it themselves.
When they request help brushing their teeth because they’re worn out from a busy day, I gladly oblige. After all, it’s a reminder that they still need me, and that brings me joy.
It means encouraging them to bring along their favorite toys or comforting items when they spend the night away from home. It’s about allowing them to pack their pockets with little treasures for a simple grocery trip, as I see the remnants of their toddlerhood gradually giving way to boyhood.
This also means I still prepare their meals and don’t mind cutting up their food. It’s a small gesture that connects me to their childhood.
Letting them be little involves overlooking the mess in their rooms, as it signifies joy and memories being made. One day, those tidy spaces will only remind me of what used to be, and I will long for the clutter once more.
Ultimately, it means appreciating that I’m still needed and relishing those moments when they seek out snuggles.
I won’t tell new moms to let their children be little, because I remember how challenging the early years were. The endless cycle of feeding, changing, and sleepless nights is something I won’t downplay. But I do wish I had embraced their littleness sooner.
I find comfort in the moments I did cherish their youth. I’ve grown as a mother, and my perspective has shifted to one filled with softness, patience, and peace. When you finally grasp the meaning of letting them be little, it signifies your growth as a mother too. You’re no longer the frazzled parent desperate for time to speed up; you’re someone who wants to savor every magical moment.
So, I’m letting them be little while I can, and that’s important because, despite their growth, they’re still young enough for me to hold onto their childhood a bit longer.
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In summary, embracing the concept of letting our children be little allows us to appreciate the fleeting moments of childhood. It encourages us to be present, listen closely, and create lasting memories while recognizing the importance of our role in their lives.