Anyone who has children will never argue that being a parent is the hardest job you will ever have. Not only is it a full time job with days that are often thankless, you are overwhelmed with a complete love and adoration for your child that you never thought possible. One of the most bittersweet aspects of having children is watching them grow up, and longing for the simple days when all they wanted was to laugh and play with you. As a work from home mom, I often take for granted how I can play with my daughter whenever I want, in between work that is. In the 2 years since having her in my life, I realize that making memories is one of the most cherished things I can do for our relationship. We’ve collected a simple list of memories that every parent with a toddler should make. Before you know it, you’ll be looking back on these and feeling like they were yesterday!
Source: St0rmz via Flickr
1. Get Dirty
I’m not gonna lie, I don’t like getting messy. I always have napkins, wipes and tissues within arms reach and I’ve rubbed off on my 2-year old already, who often reaches out her hands to me saying “it’s dirty!” But when I have food all over my face or paint on my hands, my daughter thinks its hilarious and I love seeing the look on her face. So once in awhile, let it all hang out and just have fun. There’s nothing a little soap and water can’t handle.
2. Story Time
It’s long been known that reading to your children enhances their vocabulary and memory. We all know this, but we don’t always have time. Story time doesn’t just improve your child’s future education, but their childhood memories of you! You can help determine if your child will love reading and associate you with their love of it. You don’t have to sit down with 10 books to create a story time, just pick something that you both enjoy. You won’t regret the beautiful memories you have of your little sitting in your lap.
3. Dance
I was not born with the gift of rhythm, and if my daughter’s current dance moves are any indication, she wasn’t either. She currently looks like Elaine from Seinfeld, something I hope she grows out of! The fact that neither of us have any moves, makes me less inhibited and we love to dance together. When your teenage is leaving the house for their first dance, you’ll remember those sweet dance sessions in your living room when they were 2 years old.