It was probably a really weird moment for a revelation, but I was recently changing my almost five-month-old nephew’s diaper and I was struck by how much I’ve learned in the last four years.

When my first niece was born at the end of 2006, my experience with children was limited to some babysitting gigs in high school and college. Her arrival turned my world upside down in the best way possible. In the years that followed, I’ve welcomed eight more little ones into my life (and three more are on the way!) and with each, I learn a thing or two.

But the knowledge hasn’t been all about kids. Sure, now I know that when you change a little boy’s diaper you want to watch out for any splashes, you should always carry snacks, and that knowing a few Yo Gabba Gabba songs can get you through a stick situation. That kind of stuff comes with the territory. However, I have to credit each of these little guys with teaching me about myself.

A perfect example? I hate noise. I never thought so.  I live in New York City in an area crowded with hospitals. I am immune to hearing sirens blasting at 3 am. But put me in a room with a couple of kids running wild and I’ll be begging for an aspirin. Maybe it’s time I cut down on the noisy gifts, if only for mom and dad!

Secondly, I really need to develop more patience. I work in a fast-paced industry, at a brand new startup no less, so I try to operate with extreme efficiency. I hate to say it, but when the kids are taking their sweet time doing things, my skin starts to get a little warm. I am amazed as I watch moms, dads, grandparents, and other Savvy Aunties as they keep their cool and coach their kids along in their tasks. I would love to learn that skill so I can be a better aunt. Suggestions are welcome!

But I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I am in no way, shape or form ready to be a parent just yet. Well, a good parent. Having a child really does change everything, whether you want it to or not. Clearly, I don’t have the patience.  I also don’t have the desire to compromise certain areas of my life right now (hello, handbag addiction!). And that’s totally okay!

Lucky for me I have an army of awesome kids who are schooling me on the ins and outs of aunthood, and I’m having a blast learning along the way!

Published: February 23, 2011