We're so preoccupied with protecting children from disappointment and discomfort that we're inadvertently excusing them from growing up.

You know children are growing up when they start asking questions that have answers

If children can't handle competition when it's necessary, or take some criticism, or never strive to be better because their parents inadvertently programmed them to believe they are already the best even when they're not, then they are in for some serious shocks and bumps down the road.

Mistakes are a natural part of growing up. They're to be expected and made light of. But children bloom like spring flowers under praise. They want so much to be noticed and appreciated, to excel and have that excellence noticed.

You know your children are growing up when they stop asking you where they came from and refuse to tell you where they're going.

Growing up happens in a heartbeat. One day you're in diapers; the next day you're gone. But the memories of childhood stay with you for the long haul.