As a parent of small kids, I’ve learned that my little ones—aged 3, 5, and 7—barely register on the growth charts. This isn’t a surprise to my husband and I; we were both on the smaller side as children. Though our babies were born at average sizes, they just never really took off in growth. And they remain adorable little munchkins.
People often don’t realize the unique challenges that come with having tiny tots. Only parents of petite children truly get this. Here are some truths you might relate to:
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Clothing Sizes Are a Puzzle.
My kids consistently wear sizes that are one or two sizes smaller than what their age suggests. When family asks for their sizes, and I mention something like “size 4 for my 5-year-old,” I can almost hear the raised eyebrows on the other end of the line. And of course, the hand-me-downs start rolling in—gifts of clothes meant for even younger kiddos. -
You’re Always Encouraged to Add Calories.
After each pediatric visit, I often receive that infamous look from the doctor after weighing my kids. Though I’m well aware of their steady growth, I still find myself at home pushing them to eat more butter, ice cream, and even protein shakes. I often oscillate between worrying about fostering unhealthy habits and just telling them to finish their plates. Of course, I know it won’t magically make them grow faster. -
Age Perceptions Are Off.
It’s a common occurrence for people to underestimate my kids’ ages. My 7-year-old, Leo, often gets mistaken for a preschooler, and conversations are typically directed at him in a high-pitched baby voice. When people find out he’s in fact 7 and hears about the details of dinosaur anatomy, their eyes practically pop out. I find myself saying, “He’s just small,” repeatedly. -
The Exclamations of “So Tiny!”
People have an odd habit of squealing about how small my kids are, and it’s never meant as a compliment. Often, they don’t realize my kids can hear them. I do my best to respond with a smile and mention that their dad and I were small too, hoping to ease any discomfort about their size. -
They Come Off as Child Prodigies.
Even when people know their actual ages, when my kids start discussing their favorite subjects, they suddenly seem like geniuses. Leo, for instance, has an impressive understanding of historical events. When he talks about the American Revolution, folks are amazed at his intellect while still guessing his age incorrectly. It’s a funny juxtaposition; a small size can make even average knowledge seem extraordinary. -
Heartaches Amidst Friends.
Seeing my kids stand next to their taller friends can be tough. The tallest kids often draw teasing, and I worry about my little ones facing names like “Shorty.” I wouldn’t change them for the world, but it’s hard to think about potential challenges they might encounter at school. -
Milestones Are Celebrated.
Unlike most parents who dread buying new shoes, I revel in it! When Leo finally reached a size 12, I celebrated with a pair of cowboy boots. And when 3-year-old Bella moved up to size 3T, I tossed the old clothes aside with glee. Yes, it brings a twinge of nostalgia, but it’s an exciting sign of growth! -
Amusement Park Restrictions Are a Nightmare.
At our local zoo, there are height restrictions for rides like the pony carousel. My kids have had to watch from the sidelines while younger children enjoy rides they can’t go on yet. It’s heartbreaking to say no when they see their friends having fun.
Parents of average-sized kids may not fully understand what it’s like to navigate these experiences. They celebrate perfect growth percentiles and don’t spend time worrying about how to boost their kids’ calorie intake. But for those of us with petite children, we know the struggles that come with raising our little giants. They’re adorable and bright, but the challenges are all too real.
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In summary, being a parent to tiny kids comes with its own set of challenges, from clothing sizes to public perceptions. While they may look younger and sometimes genius-like, the emotional rollercoaster of raising them can be quite the ride.