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A Heartfelt Thanks to the Big Kids
You didn’t choose this role. Being the eldest wasn’t on your wish list, and if you ever imagined it, you probably had no idea what it truly meant. Real babies and toddlers are a world apart from the stuffed animals you once cradled in a toy stroller. Yet, you embrace the younger kids with surprising patience and kindness (most of the time), often managing the demands of a spirited 2-year-old better than many adults do. It’s truly admirable.
Big Kids are the unsung champions of parenthood. Thank you for holding the fussy baby while we dig through our seemingly bottomless purses for that elusive credit card, just trying to buy diapers and escape the store before nap time hits. And to the 10-year-old who led a group of toddlers on a scavenger hunt around the park so that all the moms could enjoy a much-needed adult conversation? We appreciate you more than you know.
Every time you share your snacks, dance with our little ones, or make them laugh when they’re feeling cranky, you lighten our load as parents. Your youthful enthusiasm brings renewed hope during our weary moments.
Sometimes, we adults ask a lot from you. “Keep an eye on your little brother!” “Fasten the baby’s car seat! NOW!” “Carry this into the house!” “Do something, ANYTHING, to get your brother to use the potty so we can leave on time!” For this, I sincerely apologize. We’re not perfect; we get overwhelmed, but that moment you had your little brother pretend to be a cat to coax him into using the potty? Pure genius! That’s where your importance shines. You’re at an age where you can be responsible and have authority, yet you still view the world through a lens of imagination and creativity that often eludes us busy adults.
But your contributions extend far beyond just helping us out. You’re not merely an extra pair of hands in a hectic home or a built-in babysitter that allows us a moment of peace. Your true worth is so much greater.
We often tell older children how much the younger ones admire them. “They look up to you,” we say. Sometimes it sounds like a warning, but what we really mean is that everyone respects you — whether it’s the hours you dedicate to perfecting your gymnastic routine or your relentless pursuit of mastering that piano piece. It’s remarkable to witness such dedication from someone so young. You serve as a role model not just for the little ones but for us parents too. I’m so grateful you’re around, as my 4-year-old can see you at gymnastics, piano recitals, and school plays, realizing the possibilities that lie ahead if she works as hard as you do. These are invaluable lessons only you Big Kids can impart, and you do it effortlessly.
As the mother of one of the younger kids, I want to express my gratitude to you: older cousins, big brothers and sisters, teenage babysitters, and the older kids at the park. When you complete your homework, wipe your little sister’s nose, or scoop up a crying baby so his mom can take a breather, I often feel a lump in my throat. You touch my heart, and I can’t help but smile. You’re incredible, and I know that when these little ones grow up to be the next generation of big kids, they’ll be just as wonderful because they’ve had you to guide them.
This article originally appeared on June 12, 2015.
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In summary, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all the Big Kids who not only help lighten the load of parenthood but also inspire younger generations through their actions and achievements.