Updated: March 15, 2021
Originally Published: May 19, 2017
My 4-year-old son, Lucas, has recently entered a phase where he is completely enamored with nature. At preschool, he just wrapped up a unit on plants and seeds, and at home, we’ve started a little garden together. We’ve even borrowed a few books from the library to explore more about the flora around us because he’s eager to learn the names of every plant he spots, while I’m admittedly not very knowledgeable in that area.
His fascination has flourished, turning into a genuine obsession, and now, every outdoor outing is filled with discussions about plants and animals. With my 10-year-old son, Max, rolling his eyes at his younger brother’s enthusiasm, I find myself cherishing Lucas’s innocent wonder while I still can. Soon enough, he’ll be starting kindergarten, and I can only imagine how quickly he’ll adopt his brother’s more skeptical view of the world.
Despite my efforts to nurture Lucas’s curiosity, our outdoor adventures often stretch into what feels like an eternity, testing my patience. He can’t take a step without discovering a bug or a stick that captivates him. Just this morning, our walk to school turned into a 10-minute expedition. Within moments of leaving our house, he found a stick and began to bang it against a tree until it snapped. A few steps later, he spotted a clover, which he insisted was a “shamrock” and stood mesmerized by it. As we neared the corner, he spotted what he called a “burr tree” (which was just an evergreen), and when I told him we couldn’t go see it, he stomped his feet in protest.
Max, in the meantime, was not pleased. “I need to get to school,” he muttered through clenched teeth. So, I nudged Lucas along, trying to maintain our pace. When we finally reached Max’s school, we had to continue just another block to Lucas’s pre-K, which took a whopping 10 minutes (I actually timed it).
On the way, we passed a church with a beautiful garden filled with large pink and white flowers. I can understand why Lucas wanted to linger there, but I struggled to keep my composure as I watched the clock tick away, thinking of all the tasks awaiting me at home.
In the midst of my growing frustration, I realized something profound: my son was in pure bliss, frolicking through the flowers and burying his face in their petals. He was embracing the moment, something that adults often overlook.
As a busy parent, it’s easy to become preoccupied with our endless to-do lists. Even while washing dishes, I find myself plotting the next meals rather than enjoying the task at hand. The routine of laying out clothes for the next day makes me think ahead to upcoming seasons and shopping trips. The pressures never seem to ease, and it feels impossible to simply pause and be present.
Yet, we need to find time to connect with our kids amidst the chaos. I’m making a conscious effort to allow myself to slow down during these walks to school, to be present with Lucas as he plays with dandelions and explores the world around him. It’s okay if he’s a few minutes late to school; those moments spent together are what truly matter.
These seemingly small instances of connection are actually significant for our children. What will Lucas remember most from his childhood? The things he owned, or the times his mom stopped everything to enjoy a moment of beauty with him? I cherish the memories of my own childhood when my parents took the time to be fully engaged in my experiences.
It’s easy to get swept up in adulthood and forget what’s essential. Our kids don’t require much — just a few moments of our undivided attention can mean the world to them. So, parents, let’s commit to taking time today. Put aside your tasks for a few minutes and simply enjoy the company of your child. Take a moment to literally stop and smell the roses.
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Summary:
In our busy lives, it’s crucial to pause and appreciate the little moments with our children, as they form lasting memories and values. Taking time to connect with them in nature fosters their sense of wonder and teaches them what truly matters in life.