Kids Raised By Really Thoughtful Parents Usually Carry 7 Memories Into Adulthood
Davor Geber | Shutterstock Childhood memories can be some of the most cherished moments of our lives, especially if our parents were kind and attentive when we were growing up.
Studies have found that the effect of having thoughtful parents is profound. Growing up with considerate parents creates wonderful recollections that children carry into adulthood. They’ll look back on their childhood with joy, which can lead to healthier, better-adjusted adults.
Memories kids raised by considerate and thoughtful parents carry with them forever:
1. Having a birthday tradition that made them feel special
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Parents who go out of their way to make their children feel special are teaching them that they matter. This can be as simple as always having cake for breakfast when it's their birthday. The point is that the celebration is specific and special to them.
When they do this from an early age, they are setting an example. They’re not only giving their children the love and attention they need, but they are also showing them what to expect from others. They’re not going to put up with poor treatment because their parents modeled the behavior they deserve.
In adulthood, this person may refuse to settle for less. They know their parents loved and appreciated them and always made them feel special. These moments won’t be forgotten and can help guide them in difficult relationships in the future. They know they only deserve the best.
2. Ensuring the holidays were filled with excitement and wonder
Holidays were always exciting for me as a child. My parents went out of their way to make them feel special. Even if they didn’t have the money to afford an extravagant pile of gifts, they always made sure we created special memories on those days. From family traditions to the time spent together, I'll never forget those childhood experiences.
Psychologists recommend parents ask themselves what they want their children to take with them from the holidays they spend together. Often, quality time is what they hold onto, not the gifts. They’ll likely carry those special traditions with them into adulthood.
3. Hearing their parents say they were sorry
It’s hard for parents to apologize to their children. Sometimes, they genuinely feel like they did nothing wrong. Other times, their pride gets in the way.
Often, kids are told to apologize for their actions, and when their parents do it, it helps children feel loved and secure at home. Apologizing to children is a rare act of respect from their parents. Of course, they’re loved and respected at home, but hearing an adult say sorry to them can make them feel seen. It also teaches them how to apologize to others, and they’ll hopefully carry it into adulthood.
4. Feeling comforted when sick or sad
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Children need an emotionally supportive household. When they need something, they should be able to count on their parents to pick them up when they’re down. Without that comfort, they may struggle to process their emotions. This can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, both in childhood and adulthood. With a bit of care from their parents, they can develop confidence when dealing with difficult things.
Emotionally healthy homes ensure parents never dismiss their child’s problems and allow them the space to share their thoughts. Whether it was soothing them when they cried or being a listening ear when they were struggling at school, this sets the tone for their emotional intelligence in adulthood.
5. Getting unconditional love, even when they messed up
I remember many of my friends constantly hiding things from their parents. If they made a little mistake or broke a rule, they’d do anything to cover it up. I noticed it made them anxious and defensive around their parents, always waiting for the moment they would find out their secrets and scold them. This type of person might bring that attitude into adulthood, keeping secrets from their boss or partner because they fear consequences.
Parents who loved their children no matter what taught them that the world is safe. It’s okay to make mistakes, but it’s important to own up to them. Having these memories and lessons in mind, they can become more honest adults.
6. How they made their friends feel like family
Growing up, and even into adulthood, my friends were like extended family members in my house. My parents knew them all well and made a point to be active in their lives when appropriate. Some of them considered my parents more of caregivers than their own. It is a special memory I carry into my adult life, and I know my friends feel the same.
Parents help their children navigate social situations and teach them valuable lessons for adulthood. Whether it’s modeling social behavior or accepting their child’s friends like family, kids will likely never forget these moments.
7. Being taken seriously when something was wrong
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How many times have you heard a parent tell their child that they’re okay when they’ve hurt themselves, not even paying attention to the injury? It can be easy to dismiss a crying child because, let’s be real, sometimes they’re overly dramatic. However, parents who take their kids seriously set them up for success as adults. They learn support from an early age.
Trusting what a child says isn’t easy for some parents. They’re not sure what is true or what could be exaggerated. However, open and honest conversations about whatever is coming up can change their lives. Validating their feelings is important for healthy development.
I think everyone has a special memory of a time when a parent made them feel better after something went wrong. I know I have quite a few. It’s nice to look back on these moments that have strengthened my relationship with my parents.
Haley Van Horn is a freelance writer with a master’s degree in Humanities living in Los Angeles. Her focus includes entertainment and lifestyle stories.
