As a parent, the journey of raising children is filled with countless milestones, surprises, and heartwarming moments. One of the most profound experiences I’ve encountered along this path is witnessing full circle moments with my kids—those instances where life seems to beautifully come together, echoing memories of my own childhood while creating new ones with them.
My daughter recently danced in her first recital and it was the quintessential full circle moment because 1) I envisioned moments like that from the second I found out I was carrying a girl 2) I used to dance as a child and seeing my own child do the same was surreal.
Here’s are five reasons why it’s important for us to acknowledge & embrace those full circle moments with our kids and why I encourage others to do the same. These are applicable even if you’re not a parent.
1) Reflect on & Revisit Childhood
When I see my children engrossed in activities that once defined my own youth—whether it’s playing a favorite game from my past, reading a beloved storybook, or even expressing a similar quirky sense of humor—I can’t help but feel a deep sense of nostalgia and connection. And the nostalgia was strong during Chi’s dance recital, from her discussing her nerves before the dance to seeing her shine on the stage.
It’s like reliving fragments of your own childhood through their eyes, and in those moments, you find yourself transported back in time. Whether you’re a parent or not, stop and savor those moments that take you back in time and make you reflect on your journey to this very moment. It can help you appreciate your story that’s being written and the chapters to come.
2) Pass Down Traditions and Values
Sharing traditions and values with your children brings a profound sense of fulfillment and an array of full circle moments. Whether it’s a family recipe passed down through generations, celebrating cultural festivities, or simply imparting life lessons learned from my own experiences, these interactions foster a sense of continuity and belonging. Seeing them embrace these traditions with curiosity and enthusiasm reaffirms their importance and strengthens our familial bond.
The idea of creating a legacy is more than just passing down your genetic makeup, we have to be mindful of the lessons, words, and beliefs that will live on long after we are gone. Leaving a lasting legacy may include your children, but it transcends parenthood since it encompasses the memory that everyone you encounter will have of you. I know it may be uncomfortable to think about, but how do you want people to remember you, and what words do you want shared in your obituary?
Reflecting on this question can serve as a guide as we go about our day to day.
3) Learn Through Their Eyes
On a different note, experiencing new things alongside my children opens up a world of fresh perspectives and discoveries. Their innate curiosity and unbridled wonder encourage me to see the world through a different lens.
Before having children, I experienced this with my little sister when she graduated from college track and joined me as a professional track runner in Europe for the first time. Things that became my norm after years of repetition were new and exciting to her, and it forced me to see sport with fresh eyes.
Then, years later, when my kids came along, being able to put myself in their shoes and experience the world with them created endless full circle moments.
From exploring nature’s wonders to tackling modern technology, every shared adventure becomes an opportunity for mutual learning and growth. This is true both for your children and all the people you encounter each day.
There is tremendous power in pausing to appreciate the world with fresh eyes and learn from the perspectives of those around you.
4) Embrace Milestones and Achievements
Celebrating their milestones—whether big or small—fills me with immense pride and joy. Witnessing their first steps, hearing their first words, cheering them on at their school performances, and seeing them achieve personal goals are moments etched in my heart forever.
Although I have the privilege of witnessing countless firsts with my daughter, it’s been a joy this second time around with my son as well. While I’m experiencing full circle moments with an almost 5 year old girl, I’m able to simultaneously celebrate milestones of a one year old boy and mother of two which is a constant reminder that time waits for no one.
These milestones mark not only their growth but also the evolution of our relationship as they navigate the world with increasing independence.
Parent or not, when you pause to celebrate the milestones of others, it can help remind you of what you’ve achieved over the years, and where you are today.
5) Continue the cycle
As I reflect on these full circle moments, I am reminded of the cyclical nature of life and parenthood. Just as my parents watched me grow and evolve, I now have the privilege of guiding and nurturing my own children.
They say that a mother is born the same day her baby is born, and this is so true. I also found that for me, a more compassionate daughter was also birthed on the day I became a mom. My admiration for my own parents grew, and I had a firsthand understanding of what giving true unconditional love feels like. Just as I’m sure my parents seeing me become a mom was full circle for them, me joining them in parenthood was full circle for me as well.
Each experience, whether reminiscent of my own childhood or entirely new, contributes to the tapestry of our family story.
Experiencing full circle moments with my kids is a testament to the richness of parenthood—a journey intertwined with memories, traditions, shared values, and boundless love. It’s about cherishing the past, embracing the present, and nurturing the future. As I continue to navigate this journey, I look forward to discovering new moments of connection and wonder with my children, knowing that each one adds another layer to the beautiful tapestry of our family’s story.
Can you remember the last time you experienced a full circle moment? How did it make you feel?
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Dr. Tiffany Ofili Porter 