Time goes so quickly with children. One minute they are a helpless infant and then the terrible two-year-old and then the sweet five-year-old ready for school. We cannot keep tabs on every moment, but we can try to reflect a little more deeply on just simply enjoying some moments, especially those that tell us more about our child.

I always remember how quickly a year went in a classroom. There were some precious moments with the children that you try and keep in your memory banks. Time can so easily diminish those memories.

This blog is inviting you to value those special moments as they will be those lasting and important memories going into your future. Do you remember when your child first walked? Perhaps you have a wonderful memory of them smiling at you for the first time. These special moments will become the fabric of your memories over the years. It is important to recognise that they have value and you need to look for those moments that are unique and special to you and your child. Their uniqueness makes them memorable.

Consider:

Time flies when you have children. Here are some reminders to cherish the little moments.

The more you identify those special moments, the greater appreciation you have for your child’s development. You begin to notice so much more of their subtle aspects of growth.
Each day, find something special that you notice about your child. Think about it and look for occasions when it is evident.
Talk about those special moments to others. There is nothing more reinforcing than having conversations about those moments you cherished.
Keep it simple. The very best moment can be found in the simplest of situations.
Find humour in what your child does during the day. Try to avoid getting frustrated by their actions. In some cases, there can be quite delightful moments in seemingly difficult situations.
If you see your child in a positive light, you will easily see those special moments in your child. They are not difficult to find.
Sometimes saying nothing and just watching your child interacting with play or with others can give you such satisfaction.
Some parents keep a journal of those special moments and enjoy going back over them through the years.
Opportunities will pass you by if you are rushing through life. Each moment has its own merit and we often are too focused on what lies ahead and what we must do to get there.
Never underestimate the value of that special moment that you are feeling with your child. It is precious and unique to you. Learn to look all around in odd places to find that moment.
If you haven’t found that special moment for a while, take some time to slow down and just enjoy your child for a little while. That moment will come.

Finally, because life is on the move all the time, freeze frame some moments to store for your future reflection of your child.

‘Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.’
-Dr. Seuss