WHY YOU NEED TO ENJOY THE TODDLER YEARS BEFORE THEY PASS YOU BY!

Written by Olivia Arrow

As parents, we often find ourselves wishing for our children to grow up quickly. We can’t wait for them to sleep through the night, to walk and talk, and to become more independent. However, in the midst of this eagerness for our children to reach these milestones, we often forget to cherish the present moment and fully embrace the toddler years. These precious years are fleeting and before we know it, our children will be grown and we will find ourselves longing for the days of toddlerhood. It is important for us to recognise the significance of these formative years and make the most of them before they pass us by.

The toddler years, typically spanning from ages one to three, are a time of immense growth and development. It is during this period that children learn to walk, talk, and assert their independence. They are discovering the world around them and are constantly curious and eager to learn. As parents, it is our responsibility to guide and support our children during this crucial stage of their lives. However, it is also important for us to step back and simply enjoy this time with our little ones.

One of the main reasons why we need to embrace the toddler years is that it allows us to truly bond with our children. These years are filled with endless snuggles, giggles, and exploration. Toddlers have an innate ability to bring joy and lightness into our lives, and it is during this time that we can create special memories that will last a lifetime. As we watch our children grow and learn, we are reminded of the beauty and wonder of the world. By being fully present and engaged in their lives, we strengthen the bond between parent and child, creating a strong foundation for the years to come.

Another reason why we need to enjoy the toddler years is that it allows us to witness the incredible growth and development of our children. It is truly remarkable to witness a baby transform into an independent and curious toddler. From learning to crawl, to taking their first steps, to forming their first words, every moment is a milestone that should be cherished. As parents, we have a front-row seat to this amazing transformation, and it is a privilege to be a part of it. By being present and involved in our children’s lives during these years, we can fully appreciate their growth and development and be proud of the little individuals they are becoming.

The toddler years also provide us with an opportunity to learn and grow alongside our children. As they discover the world, we are also learning new things about ourselves and our role as parents. We learn to be patient, to let go of control, and to embrace the messiness and chaos that comes with raising a toddler. We also learn to find joy in the simplest things, whether it’s playing with blocks or reading the same book for the hundredth time. By being open to learning and growing with our children, we strengthen our bond and become more attuned to their needs and personalities.

In addition to the personal growth that comes with parenting a toddler, this stage also allows us to lay a strong foundation for our children’s future. The experiences and interactions they have during these years shape their personalities, values, and beliefs. By being present and actively involved in their lives, we can guide them towards positive behaviours and instil in them important life skills such as empathy, resilience, and independence. These skills will serve them well in the years to come and will contribute to their overall well-being and success.

The toddler years may also be challenging and exhausting at times, but it is important to remember that this stage is temporary. Before we know it, our little ones will be grown and we will miss the chaos and energy that comes with parenting a toddler. By embracing these challenging moments and finding joy in the chaos, we are able to fully appreciate the beauty of these years and create lasting memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.

Furthermore, the toddler years provide us with an opportunity to slow down and savour the present moment. In today’s fast-paced society, we are often caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, constantly multitasking and trying to stay one step ahead. However, when we are with our toddlers, we are forced to slow down and be fully present in the moment. We are reminded to appreciate the little things in life and to find joy in the present. By embracing the toddler years, we can learn to be more mindful and grateful for the present moment, rather than constantly wishing for the future.

The toddler years are a precious and significant time in our children’s lives. As parents, it is our responsibility to guide and support our children during this stage, but it is also important for us to step back and simply enjoy the present moment. By fully embracing the toddler years, we can bond with our children, witness their growth and development, learn and grow alongside them, lay a strong foundation for their future, and learn to appreciate the present moment. So let’s take a deep breath, slow down, and fully embrace the chaos, joy, and wonder that comes with parenting a toddler, because before we know it, these years will be gone and we will long for them once again.