My preschooler can be exhausting. Along with her strong-willed personality and boundless energy, she likes to be by me all day long. Yet, even though I miss going to the bathroom by myself and being able to check my email without a child in my lap, I know this time is special. In fact, just the other day my husband reminded me that in five years I will miss this stage. Thus, although I might not have much alone time, here are five reasons I appreciate the preschool stage.
Affection
Before he leaves for work in the morning, my four-year-old makes sure that my husband hugs and kisses every member of the family. I hope when my daughter becomes a teenager that she will still want to hug me every time I leave to run an errand. I doubt it, but a mother can wish. As for now, I will relish all those hugs and kisses I get for no reason at all. Affection is something that little kids love to give.
Little Shadows
Sometimes, my preschooler follows me so closely that I trip on her. Since the birth of our second child, she seems to want to make sure that she is not forgotten. I call her “my little shadow.” Although I am missing her independence she displayed at age three, I am flattered that she wants to be so close to me.
Innocence
I rarely say a bad word. However, the other day I said a four letter word under my breath. I didn’t think my daughter heard but, of course, she did. I was glad she had no idea what it meant. Luckily, she quickly forgot about it. Young kids are unspoiled by the world’s transgressions. It’s refreshing.
Honesty
The other day we were at the grocery store and my daughter said “why’s that lady wearing red eye shadow?” She was right. The eye shadow was not flattering. Although, you may not like hearing the brutal truth, young kids are often very frank. They will give you their honest opinion whether you want to hear it or not. In the process, you might learn something or just rethink your eye shadow choice.
No Grudges
My daughter may remember that time I yelled, took away her toy, or didn’t let her have a cupcake after brushing her teeth. However, she never holds a grudge. Yesterday is in the past and today is a new day. I wish everyone could forgive and forget so easily.
Why do you appreciate your preschooler?
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