My 4-year-old, Ethan, has recently entered a delightful “nature lover” phase. He just wrapped up a unit on plants and seeds in pre-K, and at home, he’s been eager to assist me with our gardening tasks. We’ve even borrowed a few books from the library to deepen his knowledge of the green world around him—especially since he’s determined to learn the names of every plant we encounter, and I must admit, my knowledge in that area is lacking!
His fascination has grown into an all-consuming passion, and nature is now his favorite topic of conversation, particularly during our outdoor adventures. Meanwhile, I also have a 10-year-old, Ryan, whose sarcastic wit often rolls his eyes at his little brother’s antics. I’m trying to savor these innocent moments with Ethan because I know that in just a few short years, he may view flowers as anything but magical. With kindergarten on the horizon, I can already foresee him adopting the cool demeanor that his older brother has perfected.
However, as much as I want to cherish this phase, every outing has become a test of my patience. Ethan can’t take a single step without discovering a bug or a twig to inspect. This morning’s walk to school was a prime example: we barely made it two steps outside our door before he found a stick, which he promptly began banging against a tree until it splintered. A few steps later, he spotted a clover—what he calls a “shamrock”—and stood completely absorbed in examining it. Just around the corner, he spotted a “burr tree” (which is, in fact, just an evergreen), and when I told him we couldn’t cross the street to investigate, he expressed his displeasure with a dramatic stomp.
Ryan was visibly frustrated, muttering, “I need to get to school,” through clenched teeth. I tried to gently coax Ethan along, but our journey took a staggering ten minutes to cover a single block. There’s a beautiful garden next to his school filled with stunning white and pink flowers that Ethan was eager to explore, and I could understand his desire to linger. But as the minutes ticked away, I felt my anxiety rising, thinking about all the tasks awaiting me at home (if I even made it there).
In that moment, I found myself acutely aware of two contrasting feelings: my increasing irritation and Ethan’s sheer joy. He was in his element, reveling in the beauty of nature. He frolicked through the flower beds, burying his face in blossoms, fully immersed in the experience. At that moment, he was embodying what it means to truly live in the present—something that many adults, myself included, struggle to do.
I often find myself juggling a myriad of responsibilities, constantly focused on the next task rather than appreciating the moment at hand. Even while washing breakfast dishes, I’m already planning the next three meals. When laying out clothes for the next day, I’m thinking ahead to the coming season and the inevitable shopping trip for new outfits and swim gear. My mind is always racing, never allowing for a moment of stillness.
Yet, as parents, we often wear so many hats—housekeeper, chef, teacher, and more—that we sometimes forget to be just a parent, fully present with our children. While I can’t promise I’ll always succeed, I am trying my best to take a moment during our walks to school to set aside my worries. I’m learning to let go and simply enjoy watching Ethan marvel at the beauty of flowers and the thrill of picking dandelions. After all, does it truly matter if he’s a few minutes late to school when spring is in full bloom? Missing ten minutes of work is unlikely to be more important than the lasting memories we’re creating together.
These moments, however trivial they may seem, hold significant value for our children. They shape their understanding of what matters in life. Will Ethan remember the toys he had or the times I paused my busy life to share a moment with him, perhaps letting him admire a daisy? I cherish the memories of the times my parents took a break from their routines to genuinely engage with me, creating lasting bonds.
As adults, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about the simple joys of life. Yet, our children don’t require much—just a few minutes of our undivided attention can mean the world to them. So, parents, take a step back. Start today by putting aside your tasks, if only for a few minutes. Slow down, and take the time to relish these fleeting moments with your kids. Remember to stop and smell the roses.
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Summary
In our fast-paced lives, it’s essential to slow down and savor the moments with our children. Embracing their curiosity and joy helps teach them what truly matters. By allowing ourselves to be present, we create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.