Finding Joy in Little Moments: A Lesson from My Daughter 

Have You Been So Focused on the Outcome That You Miss the Little Moments? 

This was a lesson I learned the other day from my three-year-old daughter. 

While we were doing a fall craft, I wanted the outcome to look cute and Pinterest-worthy. I explained how she should dip the cotton balls into the paint and place them onto the paper to make a fall tree. I had previously drawn out a tree outline to help her know where to place the red, yellow, and orange paint. At first, she was putting the paint-colored cotton balls onto the top of the tree area. Then, she started putting the paint all over the paper. I became frustrated that she wasn’t doing it “correctly.” 

But then, I got an immediate check from the Holy Spirit saying, “Stop, look at the beauty your daughter is creating. She is 3, it doesn’t matter if it’s Pinterest perfect, but that she is having fun and spending time with you.” 

A Beautiful Fall Tree Created from the Heart 

Wow! Talk about conviction and stopping me in my tracks. I changed my mind set and watched her create a beautiful fall tree. When she was done, she said, “Isn’t it pretty!?” I immediately said, “Yes!” Because it was a beautiful fall tree that she created. 

From my experience, there have been far too many times I’ve rushed through the day and not stopped to see the beauty in the little moments. I am so focused on getting tasks completed during the day that I forget to sit and enjoy the little moments with my children. Have you experienced this? 

How to Embrace the Little Moments with Your Children 

There are a few ways I’ve learned to stop and enjoy the beauty in the little moments of life. Keep reading! 

Ask the Holy Spirit for Guidance 

The Holy Spirit is our guide and counselor. He helps us to follow what God desires for our lives. He will guide you if you ask Him. Most mornings, or sometime throughout my day, I ask the Holy Spirit to guide our day and me. I ask for guidance in the way I parent, what we need to do during the day, and decisions I need to make. 

I believe doing this allowed Him to speak when I needed to stop and enjoy time with my daughter. The still, small voice of the Holy Spirit quickened me and helped me see the bigger picture—not to worry about perfection, but to enjoy the time with my daughter. 

Take Time for Quiet Moments 

Taking time to read your Bible and pray has also helped me stop and prioritize before my day begins. On the days I get up early and have quiet time, I can tell I’m a little more patient and focused on the little moments. 

On the days I don’t get up early, I try to still have some Bible time, maybe a few quiet moments while my girls play together. Sometimes, easier said than done! I’m not perfect, but I know when I’m able to sit and be still before God, my day goes so much smoother, and I find I’m not as easily frustrated. 

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” — Matthew 6:34 

This verse is a great reminder to stay present in today and not stress over tomorrow’s details, allowing us to appreciate the little moments.  

Spend Time in Nature with Your Children 

Getting outside in nature can help you enjoy the little moments with your children. Sometimes just a 10-minute walk will bring about some of the best conversations with my three-year-old. She loves to talk as we’re walking and ask questions or tell me about all the things she sees. 

It’s a perfect opportunity for us to talk about what’s going on outside and to help her be more observant of her surroundings. Some of the sweetest little moments have come when we get outside. 

Cherish the Moments While They Last 

I hope you are able to find little moments with your children, to stop, take a breath, and enjoy the world through their eyes. I’ve learned that time goes by so fast, and they’re only little for so long. I want to enjoy all the little moments and cherish them. 

How do you find time to enjoy the little moments with your children? Do you have any tips or routines that help you stay present in the moment? Share in the comments below, I’d love to hear your thoughts!