Pretty much from the minute your baby arrives into this world the tests and watching for development milestones start. I have been determined with my second and last child that I will not get caught up in the statements, thoughts and concerns over what milestones she is reaching.
My son walked at around 18 months, I can remember being anxious about it, feeling almost pressure into getting him walking. Then came the Potty training, all conversation seemed to be about poo and nappies. Then came reading and writing, something my son still struggles with. What will be next? I am sure another expected milestone will be around the corner.
My daughter now 14 months has just about found her feet but yet it’s always questioned, is she walking yet? Is she talking? How many words can she say? It seemed after she was barely born the milestones started, is she still on the boob? When is she going into her own bed? Is she on solids yet?
I think a lot of it comes down to common sense and instinct, maybe some people feel more comfortable with having a set age given when a child should be doing something. I personally feel that i am not going to put myself, and more importantly my child under pressure to achieve a set milestone because that is the view of a government think tank. Of course if she isn’t talking by the time most children start pre school for instance or she is very obviously struggling then I would be trying to find out why, but that is my choice.
I just don’t understand the rush. Why are we so determined to have them grow up so quickly? Let’s enjoy them. It’s a total cliché but one used all the time, they do grow so quickly so why wish it away? My son is 7 but still believes in fairies and Peter pan but according to some I should be telling him the truth now.
They really are small for such a short time. I wish someone had told be when my son was 18 months and not walking, not to worry and to just enjoy him whilst he is not running off every two seconds. Make the most of getting all those cuddles whilst he is not escaping to chase the cat around.
If you are reading this and you are worrying about milestones, please don’t. Take it from a mum that did worry but has sworn not to this time. Don’t rush it away, they will be fine, make the most of every single day.
Great post and such a perfect attitude towards milestones. You’re absolutely right, they really don’t need any extra pressure to wish away their childhoods.
Nat.x
It’s going so very fast. Really do not need to push it away any quicker! X