“They’re always learning from what we say and do.”

Enjoy the latest stories shared by parents in our community.

Jul 08, 2026

We have so much to teach—and learn—as parents.

Every time we share stories from parents around the world, we’re reminded to stay curious and awake to all parts of the journey.

That said, this week’s community stories (share yours here!) are about the reflection that arrives when we least expect it: The moments we recognize they’re paying attention to us just as much as we’re paying attention to them. When parenting means getting a little closer to ourselves and the joy of daily life. Because the more we share the memories that come with every stage, the more we’re able to notice when they’re unfolding right in front of us.

The way my toddler asks her big sister, “How was your day?” the second she gets in the car after school. It’s truly an unexpected joy! She heard me say it for months. Now she says it before I even get the chance. As a speech therapist, I know modeling works. Still, it surprised me when she said it! They’re always learning from what we say and do.
- Christin of Elevate Toddler Play, Mom of 2
My two-and-a-half-year-old was sick the other night with a fever. It was 3 a.m., so I lay in bed with him waiting for the Tylenol to kick in. As I snuggled up beside him, I said, “I’ll stay right here with you.” He replied, “Mama, I’ll stay with you when you don’t feel well, too.” His sweet innocence left me speechless. Even in the midst of his little body fighting this virus, he was so pure and good. There is no other love like this, and I know these are the moments I’ll return to when he’s all grown up.
- Vaughan | Becoming Mom, Mom of 2
As a therapist and a mom, I can be my own worst critic: “Am I doing this right? Is it all sinking in?” Recently, I caught a sweet moment between my daughter Avery and our dog Hank. After seeing my husband off to work with lots of hugs and kisses, Hank stood at the door whining in separation anxiety. Avery knelt down and rubbed his head softly. She said, “Aw, it’s okay, Hanky. You’re feeling sad because Daddy left? It’s okay to have big feelings!” What a proud day to be a mom and a therapist!
- Kara Lissy, LCSW, Mom of 1
If you ever want to learn how to live in the present, to notice things, and to find joy in the ordinary, have a kid. I’ve never stared at someone’s ear for so long (while breastfeeding) and been so amazed. The hundreds of mini hairs, the way it’s shaped, how cool ears are. Or going on a walk with a toddler. It will take you a year to go a block, but it will make you pick up on details about the trees, the blooms, the clouds, your child, that you would never have otherwise.
- Michelle Blaser, Mom of 2 (via “Reflections on Motherhood”)
It’s amazing to watch the progression of going from a baby to a toddler. Recently I heard my daughter on our Nanit monitor—I’d gotten out of the shower and she’d woken up early. If I don’t go into her room quickly enough, she’s like, “Mommy, I wake up.” Then all of a sudden she starts screaming, “Mia! Mia! I wake up!” I can hear it over the monitor and I’m like, “Ok! I’m coming!”
- Mia Rigden, Mom of 2 (via our conversation for In a Blink)