Even though we are all technically getting older, most of us still actually embody a generation younger than us – the toddler generation. It’s kind of ironic seeing as when we were young, all we wanted to do was get older. But now that we are about to become college graduates, somehow it doesn’t seem so cool anymore. In fact, it might even be a little bit terrifying. So here’s to you, toddlers – you really don’t know how good you’ve got it. But hey, even in college you can still take part in a toddler’s favorite activities.
1. Taking naps
Who doesn’t love to snuggle back into bed after a long day of classes, meetings, homework assignments and everything in between? Although I still have horrible flashbacks of being forced to nap in preschool on an Ariel towel on the cold classroom floor, sometimes I actually fantasize about curling up on the carpet in my college lecture room.
2. Eating childish lunches
A peanut butter and jelly with pretzels and grapes for lunch? Sure! How about a grilled cheese and tomato soup? Say no more. When you get the kid meal at most restaurants you get a cookie and a kids cup, and nothing really beats that. Kids meals save you money and make you a whole lot happier.
3. Going to the pumpkin patch
If going to the pumpkin patch is a “basic” activity, then I must have been one basic toddler. I have the best memories of picking out the biggest pumpkin that I could find and having my dad carry it to the car because I could barely wrap my arms around it. To this day I still feel like a child when I dig out the slimy seeds from the depths of the pumpkin at carving time.
4. Wearing comfy clothes every chance you get
When I was little I rocked huge, comfy sweaters, leggings, and sneakers. Nothing much as changed since then. Unless I am required to dress up, chances are you will not see me dolled up to go to class. After all, this is my last year to go to “work” in basically my pajamas.
5. Getting grumpy when not fed
We all know those people who get so busy that they “just forget to eat". Well, I am not one of those people. When I am hungry, you really have to take everything I say with a grain of salt. Just ask my mom who makes sure that granola bars are always in her glovebox. Although I don't break out in a full toddler temper tantrum, I definitely feel the toddler grumpiness.
6. Crying unexpectedly
Show me a movie or a commercial that pulls at my heart strings, and there is a 99.5 percent chance that I will tear up a little. If children have the biggest hearts, then I am definitely one of them.
7. Wanting your mom or dad for no reason
College is a tough time where sometimes all you want to do is be home where you can resume the role as a child in the family and have your family take care of you. I have so much respect for those who have lost a parent, are exchange students or live out of state where they cannot see their families often. I don’t know how I would get through the semester without planning regular trips home.
8. Not really caring what other people think
We are all old enough to realize that if someone is going to judge you before they get to know you, then they really aren’t worth your time. That being said, we should all learn from toddlers’ innate innocence and be judgment free; seeing every interaction with someone as a possibility for a new friendship.
