Last week, my youngest began preschool, and in just a couple of months, he’ll be turning 3. Recently, he transitioned to a big-boy bed and proudly sports big-boy underwear. All these significant milestones signal the impending end of my days of referring to him as a toddler.
Now, let’s be clear: we still have many tantrums ahead, or so my oldest, Lily, assures me. Simply reaching the age of 3, starting school, and mastering potty training doesn’t instantly transform him into a big kid—regardless of his enthusiastic claims! Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that this enchanting, chaotic phase of my life is drawing to a close.
When my eldest, Lily, first entered toddlerhood, I found myself overwhelmed. The sheer intensity of those tantrums and the urgent demands nearly pushed me to the brink. Fast-forward five years, and I find myself reflecting on this challenging yet incredibly rewarding stage with a touch of nostalgia. Yes, tantrums remain a constant, but these unique toddler traits will soon fade. And oh, how I will miss them.
Cuddle-Worthy Squishiness
If you’ve never been hugged by a toddler, you haven’t truly experienced a hug. With that adorable baby fat in all the right places, a toddler’s embrace is perhaps the most comforting thing you can encounter at any time of day.
Unconditional Love
Sure, the clinginess can become tiring. Yes, carrying him everywhere can be exhausting, and I sometimes dream of him calling someone else “Mommy!” But the love of a toddler is pure and genuine. It’s a love you can feel, see, and even taste in the air. I adore when that love envelops me.
A Fit on My Hip
I might not always want him there, but when we’re in a crowded place or need to move quickly, nothing beats the feeling of having him nestled against me. That connection, with his little arms wrapped around my neck, is irreplaceable.
Adorable Mispronunciations
Just the other day, he wanted to “waffle” something in my ear. Enough said. I’ll genuinely miss those sweet little slip-ups.
Drenched in Affection
He loves my dress, my necklace, and my earrings. His “please” and “thank you” are more heartfelt than anyone else’s because he knows they bring me joy. “Mommy” drips from his lips with love, often followed by a sincere “I love you.” Toddler affection completely envelops you in sweetness.
Brutal Honesty
Most toddlers can’t lie, and their undeveloped brains mean you get the unfiltered truth. When you ask a question, you receive a direct answer, providing clarity without the sleepless nights spent pondering hidden truths. (Instead, you may find yourself awake, wondering how to keep them in bed. It’s a different kind of frustration!)
A World of Wonder
He screams with delight at the sight of a train or the bright lights at the county fair. Each visit feels brand new to him, even if we’ve gone each year since he was born. Every change of season, from the first falling leaf to the blooming flowers of spring, is a revelation that fills him with awe. Witnessing the world through a toddler’s eyes is a gift like no other.
While these enchanting toddler qualities won’t disappear all at once, they will gradually fade. I know firsthand that the baby fat will eventually transform into long, lean legs, and his intense affection will evolve into a more sustainable love. One day, he’ll even remember our trips to the fair, leaving me with just the sweet memories of how incredibly special toddlerhood was.
And of course, the tantrums will linger. Always the tantrums.
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In summary, while transitioning away from toddlerhood brings sadness, it also opens the door to new experiences and memories. Every stage has its unique joys and challenges, but the sweetness of toddler love will always hold a special place in my heart.