Last week, my youngest began preschool. In just under two months, he’ll celebrate his third birthday. Recently, he transitioned to a big-boy bed and proudly sports big-boy underwear. These significant milestones signal that my time of referring to him as a toddler is drawing to a close.
Of course, we still have a few more years of tantrums ahead (or so my oldest, Jake, assures me). Just because he turns three and starts school doesn’t instantly make him a “big kid,” no matter how much he insists otherwise. Yet, I can feel that chapter of my life slowly closing—a mix of magic and chaos that I will genuinely miss.
When my first child, Emma, became a toddler, I felt overwhelmed. The unending tantrums and intense demands nearly pushed me to my limits. But now, five years later, I find myself reflecting with a hint of nostalgia on this challenging yet rewarding phase. Yes, tantrums seem eternal, but some aspects of toddlerhood are fleeting, and oh, how I will cherish those sweet toddler moments.
The Sweetness of Squishiness
If you haven’t been embraced by a toddler, you may not have experienced a true hug. With their adorable baby fat, hugging a toddler feels like the warmest comfort at the end of a tiring day—or the start of a new one.
Authentic Love
While the clinginess can be tiresome, the genuine affection of a toddler is unparalleled. Yes, I sometimes wish he’d call someone else “Mommy,” but the love they exude is pure and tangible. It hangs in the air, and it’s a lovely feeling.
A Cozy Fit on My Hip
I don’t always want him there, but in crowded spaces or when we’re in a rush, nothing compares to the connection felt when he rests his head on my shoulder. I adore carrying my little boy, even if just for a moment.
Adorable Mispronunciations
Just last week, he asked to “waffle” something in my ear. How can I not miss those delightful mix-ups that bring laughter to my day?
Love that Drips
He notices everything I wear, expressing his admiration for my dress, necklace, and earrings. His “thank yous” and “please” come from a place of sincerity, and every “Mommy” is laced with affection. Toddler love is like a sweet blanket covering you.
Unfiltered Truth
With toddlers, honesty reigns. They haven’t yet mastered the art of deception, so when you inquire about something, you receive the unvarnished truth. It’s refreshing not to lie awake, wondering about hidden motives (though, I do lose sleep worrying about getting him to stay in bed).
Endless Discoveries
Every experience is fresh for him. He squeals at trains and is ecstatic at the county fair, which he perceives as new each year. The changing seasons bring wonder anew, reminding me of the beauty in everyday life. Only toddlers can ignite that sense of wonder.
These delightful toddler traits won’t vanish instantly. He may wake up on his third birthday still trying to “waffle” in my ear and wrapping his arms around me. But slowly, these qualities will fade. I anticipate the baby fat will transform into longer legs, and the intensity of love will evolve into a more sustainable bond. One day, he’ll remember the county fair, and I’ll hold onto the cherished memories of this precious phase of life. And of course, the tantrums will remain. Always the tantrums.
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Summary
As my youngest transitions from toddlerhood to preschool, I reflect on the bittersweet nature of this change. Though the challenges of tantrums persist, the unique qualities that define toddlerhood—like their genuine love and endless curiosity—will soon give way to a new phase of life. Embracing every moment, I look back fondly on the incredible journey of raising a toddler.