Embracing the Joy of Childhood: The Unpopular Opinion That’s Close to My Heart

In today’s fast-paced world, where childhood often seems to be a race to maturity, I find myself nurturing an opinion that many might deem unpopular:

It’s absolutely okay, even necessary, to shelter our children from growing up too fast.

As Claire and Peter’s homeschooling mom, I’ve had the unique privilege of witnessing every fleeting moment of their childhood—moments that seem to slip through our fingers like grains of sand. In these moments, I’ve realized the importance of letting them stay little, of preserving the innocence and wonder that defines childhood.

Kindness and Respect: Core Values in Every Interaction

Kindness and respect form the cornerstone of the values I wish to instill in my children. I expect Claire and Peter to embody these virtues in every interaction. However, it’s crucial to understand that not everyone they meet will hold these values dear, nor will every peer be a suitable companion for regular socialization.

This is where I, as their parent, step in.

It’s not just my right but my responsibility—and indeed, my privilege— to guide them through these formative years. It’s my role to discern which influences might encourage them to forsake their innocence prematurely and to steer them away from such encounters.

The Real World Will Wait

Some may argue that this approach shelters children too much and doesn’t prepare them for the “real world.” But here’s the thing—the real world will come, whether we want it to or not.

There will be plenty of time for my children to face the complexities and challenges of adulthood. But once childhood is gone, it’s gone forever. Why rush it?

A Balanced Education Through Homeschooling

In our homeschooling journey, we’ve found that learning doesn’t just happen within the confines of academic study. Life lessons are just as important, and through our everyday interactions and experiences, Claire and Peter are learning about the world in a way that’s measured and gentle.

We focus on nurturing not just their intellect but their heart and soul.
We celebrate curiosity, foster empathy, and encourage a sense of wonder.
In doing so, I believe we’re not just protecting their childhood but enriching it.

If you’re looking for ways to complement this holistic approach to learning, My Etsy Shop offers thoughtfully curated tools designed to nurture children’s curiosity and emotional well-being. These products align perfectly with the idea of learning through meaningful moments, helping families foster empathy, creativity, and connection in everyday life.

Childhood: A Few Precious Years to Be Young

So, yes, I believe in letting them stay little. In a world that’s in such a hurry to grow up, I choose to let my children linger in the magic of childhood just a bit longer.

After all, they have a lifetime to be adults but only a few precious years to be young.

To All the Parents Out There

In a society that often undervalues the simplicity and purity of childhood, choosing to let your children savor their early years is not just okay—it’s a beautiful, fleeting opportunity. Let’s embrace it.

xoxo,
Just another mom