14 Often Overlooked Parenting Milestones

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Parenting is filled with significant milestones that we all celebrate—like the first time your little one sleeps through the night or takes their first wobbly steps. Those moments are a big deal and often come with a sigh of relief, especially when your child confidently announces, “I need to go potty!” But let’s take a moment to appreciate the quieter, yet equally transformative milestones that often go unnoticed. Here are 14 parenting milestones that deserve a little more love.

1. When they can climb into their car seats on their own. My kids are surprisingly hefty—seriously, they must have inherited some alien bone structure! The first time my daughter hopped into her car seat without any help, I was so relieved I almost shed a tear.
2. When they can wipe themselves. Sure, potty training is a big win, but the ongoing saga of butt-wiping can last longer than you’d expect. It’s a relief when your child can handle this task themselves, though the way they demand it can feel like you’re at their beck and call.
3. When they can dress themselves. This may happen at varying speeds, but nothing beats the moment your child walks into the room fully dressed, and you didn’t lift a finger to help. Magic!
4. When they can bathe independently. The transition from the baby tub to the big tub is significant, but it’s even better when your child can wash themselves without your supervision. Pure bliss!
5. When they can fetch their own snacks or drinks. And maybe even something for you, too!
6. When they can whip up a meal. I’m still waiting for this one, but I can’t imagine the joy I’ll feel when my child surprises me with dinner.
7. When they can buckle their own seatbelt. No more awkward maneuvers to get them secured. What a relief!
8. When they can throw up in the toilet. I’m still tackling this one with a trash can in hand, but I hear from friends that this milestone is fantastic.
9. When they can stay home alone for a quick errand. The amount we spend on sitters for date nights? I can’t wait for the day when we can leave them at home for a bit.
10. When they can email their teachers. Knowing they can communicate with their educators without you hovering is such a freeing experience.
11. When they can plunge the toilet. Seriously, this is a major win!
12. When they sleep in on weekends. My older child often sleeps later than us, which is a blessing—if only the toddler didn’t wake us up at dawn!
13. When they comfort you. That first hug of comfort from your child is one of those sweet moments that makes your heart melt.
14. When they confidently walk away from you. Whether it’s heading to kindergarten or off to college, watching them stride ahead without a backward glance is a mix of pride and bittersweet emotion.

Every day as a parent brings new experiences and milestones that often fly under the radar. Each one signifies a new achievement and a letting go of the past. Except for those rare Saturdays when they both sleep in; that’s just pure joy!

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In summary, while we often celebrate the big milestones in parenting, it’s the smaller, underappreciated moments that can bring just as much joy and relief. Cherish them all!