Their Childhood is Also for Us

Rediscovering Childhood: Parenting as a Shared Journey

I recently had an epiphany that transformed how I view parenthood. What if our children’s childhood isn’t just about them—it’s also about us?

The Usual Parenting Cycle

As parents, our lives often revolve around our children. We shuttle them to play spaces, enrichment classes, and educational programs, standing on the sidelines as spectators of their lives. Even at home, we get consumed by routines—managing naps, bedtimes, household chores—while they play independently.

In doing so, we risk becoming passive participants in their childhood, caught up in schedules rather than connections. But parenting was never meant to feel like a duty or a series of tasks. Isn’t the essence of having children about cherishing the bond we share and the joy of being family?

Shifting the Perspective

Parenthood is an invitation to enjoy the present moment, not just a relentless drive to prepare for the next ten years. Instead of relegating ourselves to roles of “Mum” and “Dad” as side characters in their lives, why not embrace the chance to relive our own childhoods alongside them?

The Gift of Childhood Rediscovered

Children remind us how to play, how to live fully in the moment. It’s not just about watching them enjoy their youth but diving in with them—playing “Ice and Freeze,” swinging high on the playground, jumping into muddy puddles, and scooting through the park with the wind in our faces.

Play isn’t reserved for kids; it’s for everyone. Through play, we connect, laugh, and rediscover the pure, simple joys of life.

Living Life to the Fullest

Parenthood doesn’t have to feel heavy or sacrificial. Instead, it’s an opportunity to create moments of shared joy and to relive the magic of being little. While they’re small, let’s cherish these fleeting moments. Let’s embrace the gift of playing, laughing, and living life to the fullest—together.

Because their childhood isn’t just for them; it’s for us too.

———

Discover how learning can be fun for both parent and child through our Play-based Learning Resources here.