As parents, it’s easy to get swept up in meals, laundry, tidying and the endless list of things that need doing — and easy to find yourself saying “in a minute” more often than you’d like. This poem from Misty J. Eades is one of our favourite poems for parents, and it’s a lovely reminder to pause, put the to-do list down for a moment, and simply enjoy being with your child.
Just For Today
Just for this morning I won’t wash clothes,
instead we will watch your favorite cartoon.
Just for this morning I won’t wash dishes,
instead we will color together.
Just for this afternoon I won’t watch my soaps;
instead we will go to the park and feed the ducks.
Just for this afternoon you and I will snuggle up on the couch
and watch a favorite movie and eat popcorn.
Just for tonight I will let you help me fix dinner
and I won’t yell at you for making a mess.
Just for tonight I won’t yell
when you splash water all over the bathroom floor.
Just for tonight when I tuck you into bed
and we snuggle together to read your favorite story
I will hold you a little tighter and a little longer
and Thank God for giving you to me.
© Misty J. Eades, February 2006
More poems for parents to enjoy
If this poem struck a chord, you might also like these other poems for parents:
- What Did I Do Today — a reflective look at the small, invisible work of parenting.
- The Last Time — a moving poem about noticing the milestones before they pass.
- Though You Are Grown — a tender poem for parents of children who’ve grown up.
FAQ
Who wrote the poem “Just for Today”?
The poem was written by Misty J. Eades in February 2006.
Why do parents find this poem meaningful?
It captures something many parents recognise — the pull between everyday chores and the small windows of time we have to simply be present with our children. It’s a gentle nudge to choose connection over the checklist, even just for a day.
Can I share this poem with other parents?
Yes — if you know a parent who needs to hear this today, feel free to share it with them or pass on the link to this page.
Are there more poems for parents like this one?
Yes, we regularly feature poems for parents on MyKidsTime. Browse the related poems above, or keep an eye on our site for more.
Related articles
- What Did I Do Today
- The Last Time
- Though You Are Grown
Enjoyed this poem?
If this one resonated with you, take a moment to browse our other poems for parents — perfect for a quiet cup of tea or a moment to yourself. You might also like to save this page so you can come back to it whenever you need the reminder.
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