8 Hills I Will Die On as a Guardian of Childhood
The early years are something I am not willing to outsource. Childhood is fleeting and I prioritize being present for it. Not just “here” but an active, eager participant. This may require sacrifice but that sacrifice is undeniably worth being here to support and experience these moments.
Children are meant to grow outdoors, in connection to the natural world. Not just for 30 minutes on the perfect sunny day, but as a way of life. Breathing the fresh air, playing in the dirt, slowly understanding that they are a part of it all.
Children are meant to feel deeply. They are going to experience big feelings. Emotions are not problems to fix, but meaningful moments to move through. Our role is to create a safe space for vulnerable expression, and to model what healthy regulation looks like. Not to shame, silence, or dismiss them.
Rigid academics are not for early childhood. These early years are for wonder, not worksheets. Learning at this stage unfolds naturally with curiosity and life experience, not through control or over direction. When we rush academics, we risk replacing a love of learning with pressure to perform.
Socialization begins in belonging. In being known, held, and in relationship. Not just in being one of many in a room. Children don’t need long days separated from those they love, guided by strangers, to learn true connection. Real socialization is built in meaningful relationships and those are something we can intentionally provide.
Free play, imagination, and whimsy are not just for fun. They are the foundation of childhood. This is how children process, explore, and come to understand the world around them. Let them make believe. Let them get messy. Let them express themselves with creative abandon. This is them forming the boundaries of what is possible.
Our children are unique individuals with a personality and interests all their own. They are meant to be lovingly guided in discovery of who they are, not molded into boxes of who we think they should be. We are here to honor their individuality, spark curiosity, support, and witness. Not to dictate all the details of the person they'll become.
A village is one of the most valuable things we can offer our children. Not only support for us, but a sense of belonging for them. A circle of being loved and known by many. Held with care by more than one set of arms. If we don’t have one, we can build one. Slowly and intentionally, together.