Yes, I’m that parent—the one who hangs back after preschool drop-off, waiting in the restroom while my son cleans his hands, ready to hand him a paper towel, turn off the faucet, and ensure that every bit of soap is rinsed away from his tiny hands.
I’m the one who guides him to the breakfast table, announcing the menu even though it’s clear to everyone else. While other kids have already settled down, pouring their own cereal or asking the teacher for assistance, I’m the one laying out his bowl, spoon, and napkin, helping him navigate the cereal box and pour his breakfast. I crouch beside him for a moment, chatting about his day ahead and what we’ll do after school.
I’m that parent who stays as long as he needs, lingering until he’s ready to part ways. When he asks me not to leave, I lean my forehead against his, telling him we’re connecting our thoughts—that every time he remembers me, I’ll be thinking of him too. I envelop him in hugs and kisses, assuring him they’ll stick with him throughout the morning, even after I’m gone. I often find myself as the last parent in the room, while others hastily exit after walking their kids inside.
Tomorrow, I might leave a bit earlier. Perhaps I’ll step out after he washes his hands and let him request help at breakfast from the teacher. Or maybe I won’t; perhaps I’ll continue this routine of caring for him until he’s ready for more independence.
Honestly, I’m not concerned about the timeline. I don’t feel the need to enforce strict changes or decide on a specific day to step back. Independence will come naturally; one day, he’ll want to handle things on his own. Before I know it, he’ll be making friends at school, oblivious to my presence just like my older child, who still allows a quick kiss but quickly brushes it away as he runs to the morning lineup.
I’ve stopped apologizing for my nurturing ways. I no longer compare my parenting to others I see at preschool, the park, or online. My son is little for such a brief time, and only we know when it’s time to ease back on the “babying.”
We’re navigating our own unique rhythm together. Sometimes we’re close, sometimes he’s off exploring, only to return for a moment before drifting away again. The steps we take together are known only to us, and they’re often improvised, guided by love and instinct.
What I do for my son provides him comfort, and why shouldn’t he have that? It makes our daily separations easier, especially since he’s still adjusting. The world can feel overwhelming, which may lead some parents to push their children towards independence sooner. However, I believe in offering him the warmth of closeness as long as possible.
I know I could encourage him to be more independent without any harm. But I choose to take my time, simply because I can and because he wants me to. Before long, he’ll be ready to forge ahead on his own, and I’ll miss these tender moments deeply.
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In summary, cherishing these moments with my son is a decision I make each day, prioritizing our bond over standard expectations. I recognize the importance of nurturing him until he’s ready to step into the world independently, and I will embrace every precious moment we share.