10 Life Changing Lessons We Can Learn From Kids

two girls laying playing with blocks in an article on what we can learn from kids

What Adults Can Learn From Kids

I often marvel at the things I learn from kids.

As a middle school teacher and a mother of two, I am frequently reminded of the beautiful fact that our children help shape us into who we are just as much as we help shape them.

Becoming a mom has allowed me to remember what truly matters in life. Our children’s fresh perspective, unfiltered joy, and natural curiosity offer profound lessons that we sometimes forget.

Here are a few ways our kids can be our greatest teachers.

1. Stop RUSHING.

two girls laying in a field with a book in an article on what we can learn from kids

I cringe every time I hear my husband or myself say to our kids, “Hurry! Let’s go!” We are in a constant rush–even though our little ones constantly remind me to slow down.

Living with toddlers where there is no concept of time is truly enlightening and forces me to slow down. For example, the other morning (when I was in a hurry of course), my son wanted to stop and observe a dead bee instead of get into the car.

My daughter (who was already buckled) started kicking, getting mad, because she wanted to see the dead bee, too.

I debated swooping up my son while explaining to both kids that we could see the dead bee later…But I knew that unbuckling my daughter, allowing her to get out to walk around to the other side of the car, and observe the dead bee would be faster and easier than dealing with two upset kiddos.

Plus, we still got to our destination on time. And better yet, our car ride entailed a conversation about bees that was priceless and precious.

My children are daily reminders for me to slow down and do things in a relaxed mindset. This leads me to life lesson number two.

2. Be PRESENT.

a toddler girl playing with wooden toys in an article on lessons to learn from kids

Oh my gosh. I LOVE this about toddlers.

I did not understand the beauty of living in the moment until I became a mom and got to experience people living in the moment every single day right in front of me (i.e. my two little ones).

Having kids of my own has made me realize how much adults spend time talking to other people about things that already happened or things that we hope will happen. We hardly celebrate the now. Life would be a lot less stressful if we simply focused on and celebrated the now.

My children have taught me that all that matters is whether I give today my best effort; yesterday doesn’t matter anymore. Tomorrow may not even come, so just truly only think about today and how you can enjoy today.

If you spend your time dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, you are going to miss out on all the wonderful things going on right in front of you, right now.

3. Just be YOU.

a girl in a field in an article on what we can learn from kids

Children’s confidence is so beautiful. My son rocks his cowboy boots with shorts. My daughter rocks wearing Trader Joe’s stickers all over her face as we enter the parking lot.

They like what they like, and it is unwavering. They have pride in their choices and love what they do.

Children are beautiful examples of expressing themselves freely because they are purely focused on their own joy and curiosity. They have not yet learned to judge themselves through the eyes of others; they do not worry about external approval–only internal.

They are great reminders for us adults to have fearless self-expression, to let go of unnecessary worries about what others think, and to find joy in simply being ourselves. It is both freeing and refreshing.

4. Speak TRUTHFULLY.

a mom and daughter in a living room in an article on what we can learn from kids

My kids tell me if they don’t like my dress, if my breath stinks, if they don’t want to play a game with me…

And I’m not offended. I appreciate and value their honesty. They don’t say things with ill-intent. They simply speak their minds because they don’t know any different.

I’m embarrassed to admit that I used to think if you had a different opinion that it was rude or hurtful to express it. I used to struggle with finding my voice and knowing how to politely express it. My children have helped me work through this.

Children’s honesty comes from a place of pure authenticity–they haven’t yet learned to filter their thoughts to please others.

We all can learn from kids that speaking the truth is fine and good!

5. Forgive EASILY.

a dad, son, and mom looking at a picture on a couch in an article on things to learn from kids

Have you ever noticed how quickly children forgive each other, and more importantly, how quickly they forgive you?

Sometimes I really mess up big time as a parent, and I feel awful. Letting down those you love is one of the worst feelings ever, especially your kids, because they look up to you so much.

I am always so amazed at how quickly they move on from my apology and are eager to spend time with me afterward. One moment they are upset, and the next they are ready to play as if nothing happened.

Children are wonderful examples of how we can all have more compassion, patience, and forgiveness. Plus, it is a lot healthier to let go of resentment!

6. Love truly is UNCONDITIONAL.

a family hugging in a home in an article on things to learn from kids

Kids love fiercely, without conditions or expectations. Their pure love is the most beautiful thing. Their love and joy for life is contagious.

I feel so very lucky to get to spend the majority of my time (both at work and at home) with children.

7. Your gut is your gut is your GUT.

a daughter playfully climbing on her mom in an article on things to learn from kids

Mama knows best. Boy, is that statement true! YOU know best. Your intuition is never wrong. Energy does not lie.

I have my two children to thank for emphasizing the importance of following my gut. No matter the societal norms or social pressures you are feeling, you truly do know what is best for you and your family, and you need to find the strength to listen to your intuition.

8. DON’T stop asking questions.

two kids laughing behind a tree in an article on things to learn from kids

Kids ask endless questions. They are genuinely eager to understand the world and people around them. Their curiosity reminds us to keep learning, keep asking questions, and keep approaching life with a sense of wonder.

My children are daily reminders for me to never stop living, to find something new to explore and do, no matter how old we get. The happiest people are often the ones doing new things the most.

So let’s always remember to go through life with a thirst for knowledge, exploration, and discovery. That’s what keeps life interesting and fun!

9. Find JOY in the SIMPLE things.

a girl holding a flower outside in an article on lessons to learn from kids

We can learn from kids that there is beauty and joy in simple things. It is so easy to get caught up with the latest and greatest XYZ or to compare yourself to “the Jones’s”.

But none of that matters. A child’s day can be made by a cardboard box, a puddle, or a hug. They don’t need grand gestures or expensive experiences to be happy.

I am constantly reminded to remember and appreciate the little things in life and to find happiness in simplicity because of my kiddos and my students.

10. PLAY time is important.

5 children playing with balls in an article on things to learn from kids

Life can get so serious. My children and students remind me that play isn’t just for them–it’s for everyone.

Whether it’s dancing in the living room, making up silly stories, or running barefoot in the grass, embracing playfulness helps us reconnect with our inner joy and creativity. It also allows us to connect deeper with others.

I am so grateful for the constant laughter, smiles, and silliness that my littles fill our house with. They are beautiful reminders for me to loosen up and relax.

Time together is the most precious gift of all.

Final Thoughts on Lessons We Can Learn From Kids

By paying attention to the way in which children see the world, we can reclaim some of the magic, joy, and wisdom that is often dimmed or even lost in adulthood.

I am forever grateful for the lessons my kids have taught me, and I know there will be many more! Let’s listen, learn, and allow our children to remind us of what truly matters in life.

What more can we learn from kids? Share in the comments section below. I’d love to hear from you!

7 Organization Tips for Moms That Saved My LIFE

8 Best Self-Care Tips for Moms

How to Realistically Live for Yourself & Not for Others