My 4-year-old has recently become captivated by nature. At preschool, he just wrapped up a unit on plants and seeds, and at home, he’s been assisting me with simple gardening tasks. We even borrowed a couple of books from the library to deepen his understanding of flora (as he’s eager to learn the names of every plant we encounter, and I must admit, my knowledge is rather lacking).
His interest has rapidly transformed into a full-blown obsession. When we’re outdoors, plants and nature are essentially all he discusses.
I also have a sarcastic, eye-rolling 10-year-old son, so I’m keen to soak up my youngest’s unfiltered enthusiasm while it lasts. Let’s be honest: in just a few years, the notion of flowers being the most enchanting thing in the world will likely seem ridiculous to him. He’s starting kindergarten this fall, and who knows how quickly he’ll adopt the schoolyard attitude his older brother has perfected.
While I’m trying to embrace this phase, it’s making every outing seem to drag on forever and testing my patience to the limit. This child can’t take a single step without discovering a bug or a stick to celebrate, and as much as I want to be patient, it’s driving me a bit crazy.
This morning’s walk to school was a perfect example: just two steps out the door, he found a stick and began banging it against a tree until it snapped. A few steps later, he came across a “shamrock” (he believes all clovers are shamrocks) and stopped to examine it closely. As we neared the corner, he spotted what he calls a “burr tree” (which is obviously just an evergreen). When I told him we couldn’t cross the street to get a closer look, he stomped his feet in disappointment.
At this point, his older brother was visibly frustrated. “I need to get to school,” he grumbled through clenched teeth.
I urged my 4-year-old to keep moving, and we finally reached my older son’s school. Afterward, we walked the short distance to his pre-K, which is merely a block away.
That one-block journey took a staggering 10 minutes (I timed it). The church next to the school boasts a gorgeous garden filled with striking white and pink flowers that truly are spectacular, so I understand why he wanted to linger. However, I had to work hard to stay composed. As the minutes slipped away, I was reminded of the tasks awaiting me once I got home (if I ever made it there at all).
Simultaneously, I was painfully aware of two things: my growing annoyance and my son’s exploding joy.
He was in sheer bliss, completely absorbed in the natural beauty around him. He frolicked and buried his face in clusters of flowers, embodying the essence of living in the moment—something that adults often struggle with.
I strive to be present, and my child has certainly helped me with that. However, as a busy parent juggling numerous responsibilities, my mind is often preoccupied with “what’s next” rather than appreciating the moment at hand.
Even while washing breakfast dishes, I’m already planning the next three meals. While laying out clothes for the following day, I’m mentally calculating how soon I need to shop for new seasonal outfits, shoes, and oh my goodness, summer is approaching—do they have swimsuits that fit? And where on earth did I stash the sunblock? Why do I always misplace that?
It’s a never-ending cycle, and my mind never truly rests. I know I’m not alone in this—many parents today are overwhelmed with obligations and stress. We juggle multiple roles: housekeeper, accountant, chef, caregiver, educator, and employee.
But when do we allow ourselves to simply be a parent, the one who can set everything aside and exist in the moment with our children?
I can’t promise I’ll always succeed, but I’m genuinely making an effort during our walks to school to let go and be present with my son as he explores flower bushes and picks dandelions. I’m trying not to check my phone or the clock. Does it truly matter if he’s 10 minutes late for school during those precious weeks of spring when everything is blooming?
What would happen if I sacrificed 10 minutes of work time? For me, probably nothing significant. Or at least nothing more vital than what those 10 minutes will mean to him for a lifetime.
As trivial as it may seem, I believe these moments are incredibly significant for our children. It’s more than just “letting them be kids.” It’s about instilling in them what to cherish in life and what genuinely matters.
What will my child remember most from his childhood? The toys he owned, the organization of his life, or the times when his mom paused to enjoy a little morning adventure with him, letting him pick a daisy and marvel at its beauty?
Those are the memories I hold dear from my own childhood—the moments when my parents stopped everything to be present with me, experiencing life together at my level.
It’s all too easy to get lost in adulthood and forget what truly counts in our interactions with our kids. Yet, our children don’t need much—just a few moments of our undivided attention can mean the world to them.
So, fellow parents, take a moment. Start today. Put aside your tasks for just a few minutes. Stop hurrying from one obligation to the next. Dedicate some time to simply be with your child. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of life, to smell the roses.
For more on how to navigate parenting and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from the CDC.
Summary:
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential for parents to take a step back and appreciate the little moments with their children. This article explores the importance of being present during simple outings, like walks to school, and how these moments contribute to a child’s happiness and development. By allowing ourselves to slow down, we can teach our kids to value the beauty of life around them and create lasting memories that go beyond material possessions.