My Little Life Coach: Teachings From A One-Year-Old

Koinobori or carp streamers in the park. Photo from the Author.

Last Sunday, my family and I went to the local park, expecting a typical day of relaxation. To our surprise, the park was buzzing with activity — the vibrant colors of koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks), music, food stalls, games, and cheerful families filled the space.

It was Japan’s annual Children’s Day celebration, a festive occasion that promotes the happiness and uniqueness of children. We might have missed this fun event if we hadn’t gone to the park,

Children’s Day, observed on May 5th, is a time to reflect on the joys of childhood and the qualities we hope to foster in our children, such as courage and determination. The koinobori symbolize these traits, inspiring children to grow strong and healthy.

As a parent, we can learn a lot from children. They approach the world with fresh eyes, endless curiosity, and a playful spirit. Here are the top three lessons I’ve learned from my one-year-old daughter that remind me to embrace life with the same enthusiasm she does.

1. Embrace curiosity.

My daughter sees everything with wide-eyed wonder. Although she can’t talk yet, she points at almost everything that catches her eye and makes curious sounds, as if asking many questions about the world around her.

As she steps outside, her eyes light up with curiosity and wonder. She eagerly points out every bird that flies by and every airplane that draws a line across the sky. She touches everything, from the leaves on trees to the soil on the ground, exploring each texture with pleasure.

Watching her discover the world reminds me that as adults, we often lose that sense of curiosity. It’s important to ask questions, try new things, and keep an open mind. This can bring back some of the joy and excitement we felt when we were young.

2. Be playful.

Children playing in a man-made pond. Photo from the Author.

My daughter has a playful spirit that lights up our home. She’s constantly playing with her toys and involving everyone in the family in her games.

Her infectious laughter, adorable silly sounds, and cheerful giggles bring us smiles and joy. She finds happiness in even the smallest things and is always eager to spread that happiness to everyone around her.

As adults, we sometimes forget to have fun. Life can be serious, and we might think playfulness is only for kids. But taking a break to play and enjoy simple moments can help us relax and reconnect with others. It’s a reminder to find simple joys in everyday life.

3. Stay persistent.

My daughter began learning to walk when she was 8 months old. She used a walker at first, and then she took her first steps with assistance, either by holding onto furniture or our hands. Although she often stumbled and fell, hitting her head and crying, she always got back up and tried again.

At 14 months, she accomplished a major milestone in her development when she took her very first independent steps. Her little face lit up with immense joy and excitement as she walked back and forth between me and her father.

Learning to walk is challenging, and my daughter faced numerous falls and stumbles along the way. Her determination and resilience teach us that even when things get tough, persistence is key. By facing obstacles with courage and a positive attitude, we can achieve our goals, one step at a time.

Children have a unique way of seeing the world, and we can learn a lot from them if we take the time to watch and listen. So, on this Children’s Day, let’s remember the lessons they can teach us — curiosity, playfulness, and persistence.

Happy Children’s Day to my daughter and all the children across the globe. May you all be blessed with happiness, love, and a brighter future.

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