I’ve started giving nicknames to each developmental phase my kids go through. We’re all familiar with the “terrible twos,” the “thundering threes,” and the “ferocious fours.” Then come the “flying fives,” which, honestly, still baffle me, followed by the “six-year-old shenanigans” (especially with my energetic twin boys). And now, I’m absolutely captivated by the “sociable and sensitive sevens.”
My eldest son embodies everything you’d expect from a typical 7-year-old. He’s hilarious, brave, sassy, independent, strong-willed, compassionate, and sometimes a little silly—all wrapped up in one delightful package. I was ready for the daily struggles: breaking up fights, haggling over screen time, and negotiating veggie consumption like I was in a diplomatic meeting.
What truly took me by surprise was his remarkable intelligence and maturity. He engages with strangers, shares his thoughts, and treats service workers with genuine respect. When he gets too caught up in his surroundings, he forgets to sulk about being grounded for calling his brothers names.
He’s been closely following the election cycle, watching news stories, and forming his own opinions. One evening, when I mentioned my desire to volunteer for a campaign, he leaped up and asked if he could join me. He willingly sacrificed his weekend to canvass neighborhoods, eager to learn about civics firsthand, rather than from a textbook.
The mornings after political debates are filled with his insights, often leading to laughter from my partner, who agrees that our son’s assessments are spot-on. This weekend, he’s excited to attend a rally with us, and when told he couldn’t go, he accepted it: “Okay, but the babysitter will let me watch it on TV, right?”
He’s seen the charitable acts my partner and I have done over the years, whether it’s giving our time, buying meals for those in need, or sharing leftovers with someone homeless. Recently, he filled out a donation envelope for a foundation we support, while my partner helped him write the check.
Not long ago, he encountered a hungry man on the street after an event. Without hesitation, he approached the man and emptied his pockets of change. We had a meaningful conversation about his choice and how it could help provide a meal.
That evening, my son shared something profound: “Mom, I don’t have to make a difference for everyone, just someone.” The next day, his grandmother gave him some money and encouraged him to keep a little for himself.
As I tucked him in after our vacation, I asked about his favorite moments. He enthusiastically mentioned seeing the Liberty Bell because “it’s made of Liberty,” followed by Independence Hall for its historical significance, and finally, the highlight—a Major League Baseball game.
As parents, we often get wrapped up in our children’s unique personalities, trying to guess their future paths. I have no doubt this little activist has a bright future ahead, ready to make a difference in the world, as he has already done for me.
And now, I need to step in and break up a little skirmish over missing Lego pieces.
For more insights, check out this post on home insemination to keep you engaged in parenting matters. Also, if you’re interested in more resources on fertility treatment, visit March of Dimes. And for a deeper dive into at-home insemination, Make a Mom provides excellent information.
Summary
Navigating the age of 7 is an exciting journey filled with unexpected moments and profound insights. With a newfound maturity, my son engages with the world around him, forming opinions and participating in civic activities. His compassionate actions remind me of the significance of small differences, and I look forward to seeing him grow into the little activist he is becoming.