Parenting can often feel like an emotional rollercoaster, especially during those fleeting moments that seem to vanish before you realize their significance. As I scroll through my social media memories, I’m often struck by nostalgia, reminiscing about the days when my children were much younger. My youngest is set to start kindergarten this fall, and while he is more than ready, I find myself grappling with mixed emotions. Time, after all, is a relentless force.
In the past, I rushed to embrace this new chapter of parenting, anticipating the quieter afternoons filled with independence and productivity. However, I now understand the wisdom behind the phrase “let them be little.” The reality is that having young children is a brief, albeit challenging, experience. It may not feel fast when you’re in the thick of it, but it does indeed come to an end—often rather suddenly. I often catch myself reflecting on why I didn’t savor those moments more during the days when they were little.
I’m not dwelling on the past, though. Instead, I’ve embraced a new approach to parenting, one that encourages patience as my children occasionally display their youthful innocence. I find myself saying yes to one more story, enjoying the simple pleasure of preparing their lunches, even when they are capable of doing so themselves.
I now truly grasp what it means to let them be little. It involves listening intently when they speak, cherishing every mispronounced word and innocent phrase. Just the other day, my youngest bounded into the room, tousled hair and blanket in tow, exclaiming, “Mommy! I slept weally good this night.” I mentally filed away the way he said “this night” instead of “last night,” wanting those sweet memories etched in my heart forever.
Letting them be little also means accepting that some days, we move at their pace. There will be plenty of time later for rushing to soccer games and rehearsals, but for now, if my five-year-old wants to arrange his Pokémon cards just so before heading out, I’m perfectly fine with that. It allows me to soak in the final remnants of his toddlerhood before he dashes off to play with friends.
It also means being the one to initiate hugs and kisses, knowing that one day they may shy away from public displays of affection. It’s about building forts instead of folding laundry, or baking cookies just to witness their joy as they crack the eggs.
Saying yes more often has transformed my outlook. Their agendas take precedence over mine, even if it means indulging in a cartoon or an extra trip to the park. It means cutting the crusts off their sandwiches and putting on their shoes, even when they are fully capable. It’s about helping them brush their teeth when they’re too tired after a busy day, because those moments remind me that they still need me—and that feels comforting.
Encouraging them to bring their favorite blanket on trips or allowing them to fill their pockets with toys for a simple grocery run are small ways I try to hold onto their little-ness. I still cut up their food and prepare their plates; it’s something I genuinely enjoy doing.
Letting them be little also means overlooking the chaos in their rooms, knowing that laughter and memories are being created amidst the mess. One day, those pristine bedrooms will only serve as a reminder of the joy that once filled the space, and I will long for that clutter again.
As I reflect on my journey, I won’t advise new moms to let them be little too soon. I remember the challenges of those early years—the endless feeding, changing, and sleepless nights. But I do wish I had embraced the concept of letting them be little sooner.
I find solace in the moments I did cherish, and I take pride in the patience and softness I’ve cultivated as a mother. Ultimately, letting them be little signifies my own growth as a parent. I no longer rush through each stage, but instead, I savor the magic of these fleeting years.
So, I am choosing to let them be little now. It matters deeply to me because, despite their growing independence, they are still young enough to need me. I intend to relish every moment of their childhood until those moments inevitably fade away.
Summary
The author reflects on the bittersweet nature of parenting, particularly as their youngest child approaches kindergarten. They discuss the importance of savoring childhood moments, embracing patience, and understanding the significance of “letting them be little.” The article emphasizes the joy in small gestures, like listening to children speak and participating in their play, encouraging parents to cherish these fleeting years.