Don't make kids feel bad for growing up

Especially when letting them get older is literally our only job.

I saw a post in my Facebook feed not long ago featuring a mother asking for ideas as she put together a bakery-themed “Donut grow up” party for her daughter. It was the child’s first birthday. I thought—baby’s first guilt trip.

I personally can’t imagine wanting a child to remain 1—I think it’s the hardest age, combining physicality with lack of rationa…