Quinn Letting Me Know That She Knows How to Hold a Pocketbook

With each passing day, my little girl reminds me that she’s not so little anymore. Though she’s only two and a half, she often utters the phrase, “I can do it myself, Mommy! I don’t need help!” Of course, I’m so proud of her as she puts on her shoes, pushes up her sleeves to wash her hands or carries her dish to the sink, but it’s times like this when I need a “mommy moment.” I’m conflicted because I want my little girl to need me, but I also want her to be independent and willing to try tasks on her own. What’s interesting is the only instances when she will ask for help is if she thinks she cannot do something perfectly.

Just today, she was hesitant to draw her own happy face because she could not draw, according to her, a “good” circle. Then I found myself convincing Quinn that her circle and face did not have to be perfect and that she did a great job. I must admit, however, that I too am the perfectionist and have been since I can remember. I know what it’s like to put too much pressure on myself to be perfect or to stress over not making mistakes, and I certainly don’t want this type of pressure for Quinn. But as I am composing this post, I know that I am struggling with wanting to be the “perfect” parent who is there when my daughter needs me but able  back off and let her be independent and learn on her own.

This is my mommy moment this Monday, but I have a feeling this moment will be ongoing for years to come. Am I alone in this? I hope not.

All the best,

Tanya