9 Things We Could Learn From Our Kids

Flickr user Pavel P.

We spend most of our kids' childhoods answering their questions and teaching them everything from social skills to algebra to right versus wrong. But every now and then, we find ourselves pausing to soak in a moment of enlightenment, courtesy of our very own children.

Here are nine such lessons that every parent should embrace.

01
Smile When You Look in the Mirror

Smile When You Look in the Mirror

We start out embracing the mirror as a source of amusement and fun . . . remember that next time you're using it to size up your (perceived) flaws. Source: Flickr user Pavel P.

02
Take More Risks

Take More Risks

Continue to seek new experiences and adventures out, just as our kids do almost every day. Source: Flickr user Bad Kleinkirchheim

03
Goof Off More

Goof Off More

No explanation required! Source: Flickr user Ernst Moeksis

04
Be Confident

Be Confident

You never see 6-year-olds at the beach racing from the water to hide behind a cover-up! Source: Flickr Leah Borchert

05
Focus on the Good in People

Focus on the Good in People

Aside from the occasional tiff, kids take their friends at face value and enjoy being in their company — no overanalyzing or dwelling on their shortcomings. Source: Flickr user Jason Farrar

06
Show Affection

Show Affection

Because everyone could benefit from a big hug. Source: Flickr user Dimitris Papazimouris

07
Ordinary Days Can Be Extraordinary

Ordinary Days Can Be Extraordinary

You might have thought that they highlight of the Summer vacation would be the day at the theme park — for them, it's just as likely to be the rainy afternoon spent in pj's with their siblings. Source: Flickr user Sarah Gilbert

08
Wear What You Love

Wear What You Love

Buck the trends, and let your individuality shine through. Source: Flickr user Amanda Tipton

09
Live in the Moment

Live in the Moment

Put the smartphone down, and truly enjoy being in the presence of your kids, friends, significant other, or yourself. It'll make those moments more meaningful. Source: Flickr user Aikawa Ke