Each time our children graduate from one stage to another (i.e. crawling - walking, preschool - school, high school - graduation) we as parents are excited and a little sad as well. We want our children to grow up, but we reminisce about the 'good old' days. I think those mixed feelings are normal for all of us. There will be parent and child peer pressure to force your children to do things early. You may not be a popular parent when you say No to something 'everyone else is doing.' Parenting is not for the fainthearted or a popularity contest. Childhood is a precious time and it is all ready much too short, keep your children innocent and protect their childhood. These are the words every parent waits to hear -- and the first time your child tells you she loves you is unforgettable. the way your face lights up when she says it to you. Once your child grasps the concept of love, he or she is no longer a pure doll baby. He or she has become a tiny man or woman who is learning the meaning of giving and receiving, of reciprocal love. Then time flies and when you turn your head, they has grown up out of your arms too quickly...
