Later that night, once she was asleep, my wife and I talked about how easily we rush through daily tasks without considering our daughter’s emotional world. Structure matters, but empathy matters more. We both remembered being kids ourselves, wishing for “five more minutes” before doing something we didn’t want to do.
In the weeks that followed, we shifted our routine—less rushing, more connection. Bath time became calmer, filled with choices, giggles, and small moments of bonding. And every time our daughter says something unexpectedly wise, my wife and I share a look, grateful for the reminder: parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about listening, learning, and growing together.
