When we were kids, we had it all: toys, Disney Channel and friends who never judged us. So why did we always want to grow up?

As kids, we had the biggest imaginations that would allow for us to travel to any place we wanted. The backyard could turn into a concert arena, the playscape could turn into a pirate ship, and the woods could turn into a kingdom. But for some reason, we always ended up pretending that we were adults. Maybe it’s because we looked up to our parents or older siblings as role models. They had no set bedtimes or as many rules, so it seems as if that lifestyle was a territory that we would forever want to be a part of. That is-- until we actually got there.

Then we grew up and went to college and are now suddenly a part of the lifestyle that we desperately looked forward to for years. Only now, the most prominent question that we ask ourselves daily is, “Why did I ever refuse that nap when I was little?” Even though we have the perks of living on our own and eating whatever we want in the dining hall, being a kid was just so much more fun.

Here is why. Two words: no stress. We didn’t have to worry about submitting papers online by midnight, making money to support ourselves, or sacrificing sleep to get more than twenty- four hours out of the day. Everyone was our friend no matter what because we all were interested in the same thing, playing kickball at recess and buying ice cream at lunch. We didn’t have to worry about fitting in or standing out, back then everyone was equal.

Since beginning this journey of moving toward adulthood, one thing I have learned already in my time spent away from home is that it is important to step back from the everyday stress that life brings and have a little fun. No one ever put a deadline on when it’s time to completely get rid of your inner child. Truth is, you never have to. Growing up just means taking on more responsibility, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still watch Spongebob or eat cookies in your free time.

I will continue to tell my 10-year-old brother as he gets older to enjoy being a kid because it’s just too fun to wish away so soon. One of the biggest perks of having a young person in the

family is that you can still let out your inner child and play with them while they are young. Not only will your sibling enjoy the company of another imagination, but you will forget life’s stressors and be able to go back to the place that you once began. As long as you keep a grasp on your imagination and youthful side, you will enjoy every day that life brings. Stay youthful, kids.