In the whirlwind of modern parenting, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life. From juggling work, school runs, after-school activities, appointments, and packed schedules, it’s no surprise that many of us lose sight of the simple joys we once envisioned when we dreamed of becoming parents.

Before we became parents, many of us imagined a life filled with fun moments and genuine connection. We saw ourselves reading bedtime stories, enjoying family walks, playing games, and creating lasting memories. But in a world full of schedules and screens, it’s easy for the days, weeks, and years to fly by in a haze of rush and stress—certainly not the parenthood we once dreamed of.

When I Wrote I Dreamed of You
When I wrote I Dreamed of You, I had just had my third child. My eldest was eight, and my middle child was six—I was deep in the thick of ‘busy.’ We had just come out of a very stressful two years of COVID lockdowns, which had drained my energy. Sure, the lockdowns gave us lots of time together, but that time came with a cloud of uncertainty, and it wasn’t how I had imagined their early childhood. Of course, their childhood was—and still is—full of love, fun, and happy moments, but I still felt like the time with my big two had flown by. I found myself reflecting on my earlier dreams of motherhood, ones that were bursting with slow moments, connection, and joy in the little things.

One night, I sat down and wrote I Dreamed of You, which is really a love letter to all my babies, reminding them how loved and wanted they are. But it’s also a reminder to myself—to connect with the mother I’d hoped I’d be.

How I’m Reconnecting with that Dream
It turns out, this journey is not straightforward, and the reality is we are still busy with school runs, appointments, and activities. But I have managed to reconnect with the motherhood I dreamed of by reminding myself of a few simple things.

1. Find the Joy in the Busy
My children love to get involved in after-school activities—from netball to tennis, dancing, parkour, and music. As a parent, it’s my job to support them in their passions and what brings them joy. And yes, it makes life busy, but it also allows us to take it slow. For example, while my daughter is at her netball training, I’m gifted time with my sons. We use that time to create our own games, throw a ball, or explore the grounds around the stadium. My three-year-old is never without a toy truck, so we all have races and play make-believe with them. I use that time to chat with my eldest about his day—and of course, sneak in a cuddle or two.

This quality time with my children gets swapped around depending on the activity or appointment, so while we may look busy, we’re actually slowing down and having fun together.

2. Be Silly
I can’t recommend silliness enough—it’s one of the best ways to make your kids laugh, connect with them, and it’s so good for the soul.

We have a tradition: whenever we’re in an elevator alone, and the doors close—we dance! A quick little boogie until the doors open and we go back to straight faces like nothing happened.

Some mornings, I’ll pretend to be a taxi driver who doesn’t know where they’re going, or their butler, and they get to boss me around on the way to school. In the kitchen, I become a “silly chef” and they’re my customers while I cook dinner. These moments might just be the most fun we have together.

3. Avoid the Rush
Toddlers are unpredictable! So, I always allow plenty of time when we have to be somewhere, like school pick-ups or appointments.

I often hear people say to me, “You’re so patient,” as my little one drives his cars along a path or stops to smell a flower or look at a bug. But I don’t think I’m patient—I think I’m just enjoying the little moments. And I can, because I’m not in a rush.

4. Realign Your Dreams with Theirs
We often have dreams for our children before they’re even born—but those may not be their dreams.

One of the greatest gifts of motherhood is watching your child grow into who they are. Reconnecting with my dreams means letting go of expectations and following their lead. I believe it’s a wonderful privilege to be their mum and be a part of their journey into adulthood.

5. Read Together
Sharing a story always a beautiful way to slow down and connect—no matter their age.

My new picture book, I Dreamed of You, is the perfect story to remind your children how loved and wanted they are. And you may just find yourself reflecting on your own hopes and dreams of motherhood.

The Motherhood We Dreamed of is Possible
Reconnecting with the motherhood we once dreamed of doesn’t require grand changes or expensive vacations. It’s about focusing on what truly matters: the connection, the laughter, and the simple moments that bring us closer to our children.

Let’s remind ourselves that the most important gift we can give our children is our time, our love, and our genuine attention.

About the Author
Sharna Carter is a children’s author, mother, and teacher. Her stories are infused with love, humour and a delightful splash of quirkiness.

You can follow Sharna on Instagram @sharnacarterauthor

About the Book

I Dreamed of You
A dream is what you hope for -
a wish that can come true.
And, my baby, let me say,
I've only dreamed of you.

I Dreamed of You is the perfect story to celebrate the baby you dreamed of. Share with them the quiet moments you spent wishing for them, the magical first moments of meeting them, and the joys of discovering the person they are growing up to be.

Written by Sharna Carter | Illustrated by Gabby Grant | Published by Affirm Press

Reconnecting with the Motherhood I Dreamed Of by Sharna Carter