Let Kids Be Little, Let Them Play: Parenting Inspiration From My 8-Year-Old Parenting

My son turned 8 recently. Sometimes I look at him and in the same moment I can see the toddler he was and the teenager he will come long before I’m ready for it. The other night he asked if I’d play catch with him, something he hasn’t asked me to do in quite some time. 

My to-do list was long, my eyes heavy and my patience short, thanks to a new puppy and a long work day. And everyone knows that kids shouldn’t play catch in the house! But I said yes with a smile, because I was reminded that he’s still little, that he still loves to play, and he still loves to play with his mama. 

We laughed and talked while we played. It was clear that he loved having one-on-one time with me. We had so much fun doing something so simple. And in the midst of such a simple activity, I was reminded of some important lessons: 

• Slow down. 
• Be present. 
• Set the to-do list aside. 
• Let them be little. 
• Let them play.