When we have kids, we don’t often think they’ll end up being our greatest teachers in life. They’re younger than us, much more emotional and unpredictable, and surely not as wise. Right?
But then, you get to know them. They get to know you. They familiarize themselves with what a typical day feels like and what the world seems to be, and that’s when they unknowingly start to mirror exactly what it is that we, the parents, need to learn.
From here on out, I’ll be channeling my assertive and confident three-year-old’s energy, spunk, and realness. She (and my older son) has become my best little teacher on the things that really matter.
Here are five real-life lessons that my daughter has been teaching me lately:
Boundaries — “I need space.”
So often, we are pleasing others. Our spouses, bosses, friends, parents, neighbors, and yes, even strangers! Are you putting your own needs first? When you need to “tap out” for a bit and when those feelings of
burnout creep in, are you honoring yourself? When my daughter proclaims, “I need space!” I really feel it, and I respect it. Three simple words we could all start using more often, even if said differently in our own boundary-seeking way.
Self-love — “I am beautiful.”
I love the way my daughter dotes on herself. No makeup, no fancy hairdo, in straight-up pajamas. She’ll look at herself square in the eyes in the morning light of the bathroom and just say it, proud: “I am beautiful.” And here’s the best part: she’s not waiting for anyone else to repeat it back to her… though I always do, because, well, she is!
Confidence — “I can do it myself.”
We’re at the stage where my toddler insists on doing everything on her own. It’s her way of learning. Sometimes, I’m taken aback watching her little hands zip up her coat, pull on her pants, or squeeze out toothpaste. I’m the mom, I’m supposed to be helping and doing all the things. But my daughter is constantly reminding me to give it a beat, slow down, and trust that she can absolutely figure it out. Little Miss Independent. I admire her drive.
Presence — “Let’s play.”
She’ll drop everything to have a good time. As adults, we don’t always have this luxury between work, errands, and much greater responsibilities, but it’s a necessary reminder that all too often, we forfeit the fun for the serious. Why not shake things up? Take 15 minutes to actually get on the ground and play — or get outside and splash in some puddles. There’s still a child in all of us longing for moments of freedom, minutes of play, and that feeling only being completely present brings. The next time my girl says “Let’s play,” my only response will be “Let’s!” — because work and chores can wait — but my daughter will only be this little once.
Honesty — “I’m mad at you.”
Gut punch. But hey, sometimes you need it. I tend to avoid conflict and shy away from being brutally honest. My daughter, on the other hand, has always kept it 100 and will tell you exactly where you stand at all times. And truth be told, I appreciate her boldness. She will be explicit about where you stand with her — the good, the bad, the ugly. Lesson learned. There’s no guessing with her, and I’m taking notes.
So, there you have it. Five real-life lessons my take-no-BS toddler is currently teaching me all about as a 37-year-old working mom who thought she had it more figured out than she actually does. Aren’t we all just always learning? (Answer: Yes)
Are there any real-life lessons that your child has taught you lately? Leave a comment and enlighten us… from their little perspective.
