By: Jamie Carter
Updated: Jan. 25, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 18, 2015
While many of us are aware of the significant milestones in parenting—like the first time your child sleeps through the night or takes their first steps—there are plenty of little victories that often fly under the radar. These moments can bring a mix of relief and joy, making you think, “Wow, it really does get easier!” Here are 14 milestones in parenting that deserve their moment in the spotlight.
- Mastering the Car Seat
The day your child finally climbs into their car seat independently is a game changer. With my kids weighing in like tiny tanks, the lifting and twisting was tough on my back. When my son managed it solo for the first time, I nearly shed a tear of joy. - Butt-Wiping Independence
Potty training is just the beginning; the ongoing saga of butt wiping can feel endless. There’s something hilariously empowering about the day they declare they can wipe themselves, often with a tone that demands immediate attention. - Dressing Themselves
Seeing your child come out fully dressed without any assistance is pure magic. Sure, they might still need some help with tricky outfits, but that moment when they nail it on their own is a win. - Bath Time Freedom
Transitioning from a baby tub to the big tub is just the first step. The real joy comes when your child can wash and rinse themselves without any supervision—thank you, independence! - Self-Service Snacks
The day they can fetch their own water or snack (hopefully remembering to share with you too!) is a milestone worth celebrating. - Cooking for You
I’m not quite there yet, but I can only imagine the joy that will come when my child can whip up a meal for us. I might just cry happy tears at that point. - Seat Belt Success
The day they buckle their own seatbelt is a glorious end to those days of awkward contortions in the backseat. Freedom at last! - Toilet Accuracy
While I’m still rushing to catch the inevitable, I hear from seasoned parents that the first successful toilet hurl is a glorious moment, marking a shift in cleanup responsibilities. - Home Alone Time
The thought of running to the grocery store with my kids at home, without a babysitter, feels like a dream. I can’t wait for that day! - Emailing Teachers
When your child can communicate with their teacher without needing your help, it’s a big leap toward independence. It’s liberating for both parties! - Toilet Plunging
Let’s just say that when they can manage the toilet plunger, you’ll feel a weight lifted off your shoulders—no more “Mom, we have a situation!” - Sleeping In
Having your child sleep in later than you on weekends is a bittersweet milestone, especially when you have a toddler who greets the dawn with yodels. - Offering Comfort
The first time your child hugs you to provide comfort is a moment of pure sweetness that you’ll cherish forever. - Walking Away with Confidence
Whether it’s their first day of kindergarten or heading off to college, watching your child walk away with confidence is a mix of pride and bittersweet emotions. It’s both joyful and heartbreaking.
Every day as a parent brings new experiences and milestones, often unrecognized but deeply felt. Each achievement brings a new chapter, marking the transition from one stage of life to another—the emotional rollercoaster that is parenting. Except for those Saturdays when they finally sleep in longer than you; that’s just pure joy.
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