Have you ever looked at your child and wondered, Where did they learn that from? The way they speak, handle frustration, or even express joyâso much of it feels eerily familiar, like watching a mini version of yourself. Itâs because, in many ways, they are reflections of us. A child is like a mirror, absorbing everything we say and do and reflecting it back to the world in their own unique way.
Itâs easy to forget just how deeply connected our children are to us. In the rush of daily lifeâschool runs, homework, choresâit can be hard to stop and recognize the impact our behaviour has on them. But the truth is, our children are constantly learning from us, not just from what we tell them, but from how we live.
Think back to a time when you felt overwhelmed and found yourself snapping at your child for something small. Maybe you were running late, stressed, or simply exhausted. Later, you see your child mimic the same frustrationâperhaps with a sibling or a toy. In that moment, itâs easy to feel guilty, like youâve passed on a negative trait. But rather than being hard on yourself, what if you saw it as a moment of reflection, a gentle reminder that weâre all human and learning together!
Children donât just reflect our flaws, though. They also mirror our love, our patience, and our kindness. Have you ever watched your child comfort a friend whoâs upset or share something without being asked? Thatâs you shining through. Every act of kindness they show is a testament to the love and guidance you provide, even on the days you feel like youâre falling short.
Itâs important to remember that parenting is not about being perfect. Itâs about being present and aware. Our children will have their moments of frustration, just as we do. But instead of seeing those moments as failures, we can use them as opportunities to growâboth as parents and as individuals. When your child reflects back your impatience, itâs a chance to take a breath and ask yourself, How can I do better next time? And when they reflect back your joy, itâs a reminder that the love you give is being deeply absorbed.
Parenting is a journey of constant self-discovery. Our children hold up a mirror not just to our actions, but to our inner selves. They show us the parts of ourselves that need healing and the parts that are already strong. This can feel overwhelming at times, especially when we see our own struggles mirrored in their behaviour. But itâs also incredibly powerful because it gives us the chance to model growth, resilience, and self-compassion.
When youâre feeling overwhelmed, remember that every moment with your child is an opportunity to shape not only their future but also your own. Children are resilient and forgiving; they donât need us to be perfect, they need us to be real. They need to see that itâs okay to make mistakes, to apologize, and to keep trying. When we show them that, they learn to do the same.
So, the next time your child reflects something back to you, whether itâs their laughter or their tears, take a moment to see the connection. Understand that in raising them, we are also raising ourselves. Weâre growing, learning, and becoming better versions of who we are. And through it all, weâre building a bond that is rooted not in perfection, but in love, understanding, and endless possibilities.
Parenting is hard, but itâs also the most rewarding journey weâll ever embark on. Our children, like mirrors, show us not just where weâve been, but where we have the potential to go. Letâs embrace that reflection, with all its beauty and imperfections, and continue growing together. Let’s learn and grow together.
– Perfectly Placed Pursuits
 Dr. Salma Rashiyani.