That Time My 5-Year-Old Schooled Me on Love


My daughter and I sat side by side at the kitchen table while she worked on a Valentine’s art project for school. We sipped on some colorful Tampico to match, and had a little girl chat. She told me one of her friends is in love with a boy. I didn’t realize these conversations started so young. I mean I thought 5-year-olds still had cooties.

I asked her if she was in love with anyone and she told me no.

Discussing love with your children

“Not even with me?” I asked.

“NO!” She said. “Daddy is in love with you! But I love you!”

Ok… My 5-year-old was suddenly schooling me on love. How did she know the difference between parental and romantic love? Seriously, how is this happening?

“I have to be in love with a boy,” she said. A hundred thoughts shot through my mind in that instant but the one that came out of my mouth first was the one that rang most important in that instant.

“Well, you can tell me when you are. And that may be a long LONG time time from now.”

As we sat and I watched her painting her colorful Valentine box and I thought about how much I love her. How much I love her love of arts and crafts, her colorful and bright spirit, and her quest to learn more and more about the world. Her innocence and natural sense of kindness. I want her to stay young. And I only want her to love me (and her dad and brother, ok and other family) for at least the next decade and a half.

*Frantically searches for the pause button*

Discussing love with your children

At the time of this post Lil J is 5 years and 7 months.

*This story was brought to you in partnership with Tampico. For more photos of my girl and her cute Valentine box visit Tampico is Color.  


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Kimberly D says:

As the mom of a 24-year-old, I vaguely remember that age of innocence. It sure was a special time because there were no boy distractions. Soak up every single moment!

What a great story and a sweet little Vday box. Enjoy the time together now as they change so much.

Chastity says:

Kids are too smart! That is such a wonderful age – why can’t we push pause and make it last longer?!

Amanda says:

Awwww. Where is that pause button! Love and growing up come way too fast!

Mine just asked me how did I know I was in love with her daddy. Oh boy, I need a pause button!

Cynthia L says:

Little ones are so smart! I always wonder where they get that insight from. I love the box your little one was working on. This is such a great way to bond with little ones and have meaningful discussions.

Scott says:

It can be amazing what comes out of the mouths of little ones. My daughters have also surprised me with some of the adult-like things they say.


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Hi! I’m Jennifer Borget

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I'm a former journalist, and lifelong creator striving to make the world a better place. This is the space where I share my journey in making the most of every day by cherishing our individuality and celebrating our differences.



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