“Enjoy it, it flies.” It’s one of those phrases every new parent hears — from grandparents, aunts, uncles, and anyone who’s already raised a child or two. They say it because they know. Children really do grow up so quickly, and it’s advice you can only fully appreciate in hindsight.
In this honest and touching post, blogger and mum Una of The Now Moment shares her own experience of watching the years pass since becoming a parent.
The Wisdom You Only Understand Later
“Enjoy it! It flies.” were the wise words uttered to me by so many since I became a parent. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents of older children and teenagers — those who can justify saying it. They say it because they know. “They grow up so quickly.”
It’s only now, seven years in, that I understand the depth of that phrase. It’s the best advice I have ever been given, and yet advice I could only truly appreciate in hindsight.
You may also like: Things I Wish I’d Known
The Years Pick Up Speed
These days the life journey is gathering momentum at a speed that seems to be getting faster and faster every few months. Another year. Another Christmas. Easter. Summer holidays.
You may also like: The Last Time Poem
Now, as we celebrate my little lady’s 5th birthday, I am more aware than ever that time is flying by. She has grown into a little girl almost overnight, and as we approach her first day of school, never before have I wanted to tighten the reins on time and slow it all down.
Time is precious. Time flies by.
It is five years since I gave birth and cuddled my new baby. That is the same amount of time from first year to fifth year in school. One chapter seemed a lifetime; this chapter has been a blink of an eye.
Advice From a Mum Who’s Been There
My advice to new mums, as a mum who has earned some stripes: enjoy it! It flies, because time flies when you are having fun.
Happy birthday, doll!
This post is by blogger and mum Una Spillane, whose daily ambition is to get milk, have a clean house, and an empty in-tray. Most days she gets milk. She works from home and likes to write about, and record her “now” moments, on her blog The Now Moment. You can also follow Una on Facebook and Twitter.
Over To You
Let us know your thoughts — how do you feel about how quickly your kids have grown up? We’d love to hear your own “time flies” moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does time seem to go faster once you become a parent?
Many parents describe this feeling because each stage — from newborn to toddler to schoolchild — passes through so many small, memorable milestones packed into a short space of time. Looking back, those years can feel like they blurred together, even though each day felt full while you were living it.
How can I make the most of the early years with my child?
Small, simple things help: putting the phone down during playtime, taking regular photos or notes of everyday moments (not just big occasions), and trying not to wish away hard stages like sleepless nights or tantrums, since they pass more quickly than they feel at the time.
Is it normal to feel emotional about milestones like starting school?
Yes, completely. Moments like a first day of school or a birthday often bring the passage of time into sharp focus for parents. Feeling a mix of pride and sadness at these milestones is a very common experience.
Related Articles
- Things I Wish I’d Known
- The Last Time Poem
- Precious Memories: Making the Most of Family Time
Save These Ideas For Later
If this reminded you to slow down and soak up the little moments, why not browse more of our family life articles for ideas on making everyday memories with your kids?
Never Miss a Family Life Story
Want more honest, relatable parenting reflections like this one delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free MyKidsTime newsletter for weekly ideas, stories, and inspiration for family life.
