Let them help.
Let them make mistakes.
Let them learn.
Let them make a mess.
Let them figure it out.
Let them stay up late.
Let them lick the spatula.
Let them do it their way.
Let them play in the rain.
Let them get dirty.
Let them skip a nap (or two).
Let them make memories.
Yes, it’s easier to just do it yourself.
It’s less work if there’s no mess to clean or stains to wash.
Yes, it’s less of a headache when they’re fully rested.
But what will they remember?
A clean house? Perfectly portioned cookies? Naps & bedtime? Watching from a distance?
Nope.
They’ll remember being pushed aside.
They’ll remember being told no. Every. Single. Time.
They’ll remember how they were never able to do anything.
They’ll remember.
They’ll remember always cooking with Mama or playing ball with Daddy.
They’ll remember the times they got to play in the rain or stay up late.
They’ll remember all the fun & laughs they had.
The time we have with our babies is precious, and it’s fleeting.
We won’t get this time back.
We won’t get to do it over or make any changes.
The mess can be cleaned.
The stains can be washed.
The dishes can be done, and baths can be given.
But the memories that are made will last forever.
Make the memories the stories they’ll love to tell.
Make the memories that’ll bring a smile to their face.
Make the memories that are full of joy & laughter.
One day, we’ll miss the messes, the busy days, and the little laughs.
So for now,
let them have fun,
let them live,
let them just be kids…
because one day, it’ll just be a memory.
