The countdown is on. My firstborn is about to turn 9, and I find myself with a whirlwind of emotions. Tomorrow marks not just her birthday but her transition into tweenhood. She’s been quick to remind me—at least six times—that she’s officially not a little kid anymore. “Mom, I am a tween now!” she insists. Trust me, sweetheart, I know.
Just last week, she rode off on her scooter to a friend’s house without needing me to drop her off or give her a reassuring hug. It was a small trip, less than half a mile, and I wasn’t too worried, especially when her friend’s mom sent a quick text to let me know she arrived safely. Yet, I can’t help but feel a mix of pride and sadness as she begins to carve out her own space in the world.
Everyone always says that kids grow up in the blink of an eye, and I used to roll my eyes at that notion. It felt far from true during those sleepless nights when I was knee-deep in toddlerhood. But if I’m honest, I sometimes wish I could go back to those days. I’d gladly trade a full night’s sleep for less anxiety over whether I’m doing this parenting thing right. I would even swap uninterrupted showers for a few more snuggles or being preferred over screen time.
At her favorite restaurant, I watch her interact with the world around her, noticing how her focus shifts to a boy—let’s call him Jack—who she’s trying to impress. I remember my own first crush and how I didn’t want to share it with my mom, fearing she’d make too big of a deal out of it. But I want her to talk to me about these things, even if it’s about something as innocent as a Roblox buddy.
But then come the tougher conversations—the ones about not being invited to a birthday party or why some of her friends have phones but she doesn’t need one yet. It terrifies me to think about her beginning to feel pressure about body image. Sorry, kiddo, but you got my shape, and I’ve seen how you wiggle into those fitted shorts.
I still find comfort in knowing she can’t sleep without her pink teddy bear and that she still asks for two bedtime songs. Yes, I sometimes grumble when she asks me to tuck her in for the second time, but I treasure those moments.
There are so many emotions swirling around and countless unknowns ahead. While I have my regrets, this journey is ultimately about her. My job is to love her unconditionally, guide her, and allow her to make her own unique mark on this world.
As she steps into this new chapter, I want her to remember a few things. First, her little sister is watching her every move. I know it can be annoying, but it’s because she looks up to her. Second, never stop learning. You’re so intelligent and passionate—never lose that curiosity. I’ll never forget the pride I felt when you got your first library card.
And finally, always be yourself. You are perfect just as you are, and I couldn’t be prouder of the tween you are becoming. This journey is about to get wild for both of us, but I promise to be there every step of the way.
If you want to read more about parenting and growing up, check out this post on home insemination. And for those interested in baby health, this article on pineapple for babies is a great resource. If you’re looking into pregnancy options, this link from Johns Hopkins is an excellent resource for more information.