Sometimes, you love your child more than you ever imagined—not just when they're peacefully sleeping, but in those profound moments of kindness amid their own grief. A simple, heartfelt gesture reveals the sweet soul they truly are. As a parent, these instances remind me we've done something right. Preschoolers, you might be surprised by their depth!
Our 5-year-old daughter embodies this perfectly: what you see is what you get. When she's joyful, her happiness lights up the room. When sadness strikes, everyone knows it. She's unapologetically expressive with her emotions, never hiding them. This openness can be challenging at times—I wish she could toughen up a bit, but as someone cut from the same cloth, I get it completely. Balancing honesty with resilience is tough for a young child. How do we guide them?
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Today, my heart burst with pride. During National Reading Weeks at school, kids shared their favorite books and even 'read' aloud for a fun competition. Our daughter bravely joined in, with a jury deciding the winners announced on the schoolyard. We gently prepared her: many kids participated, so winning wasn't guaranteed—but showing up was the real victory.
Then came the award ceremony
All the moms gathered to cheer. Names were called. The first from her class clapped wildly, then realized she hadn't won. Her face fell; tears welled up as intense disappointment hit. She declared she'd never enter a competition again. I reassured her: it's part of growing, she gave her best, and next time will be even better. I'm not sure it sank in amid the sobs...
Suddenly, she noticed her classmate and fellow competitor crying too. She grabbed her bag, approached the girl's mother, and asked, "Is she also so sad?" Upon confirmation, Tessa pulled out a handkerchief, hugged her friend, and whispered the comforting words I'd just shared—wiping both their tears. She checked on another contestant, then happily moved on to celebrate a classmate's birthday party.
That's why I love her more than I ever thought possible!
Image used via Shutterstock
