In the whirlwind of preparing for a newborn, many parents focus on essentials like baby names and diaper shopping. However, Kelsey Mora, a Certified Child Life Specialist, therapist, and mother of two, took a unique approach by creating an email address for each of her children before they could even read. This initiative, she believes, serves as a digital time capsule that her kids will cherish in the future. Mora’s experience working with families facing illness and loss has shown her the profound value of preserving memories and connections.
Parents often seek ways to capture fleeting moments of childhood, especially when aware of life’s fragility. Mora regularly writes to her children, recognizing that it is vital to prepare for both joyful and challenging moments. These emails have become a legacy filled with love, advice, and stories, not only for her children but also a comforting journal for herself. “I don’t wait for hard moments; I prepare for them,” she asserts, demonstrating her proactive approach to parenting.
Mora typically writes on birthdays, marking each year with reflections about her kids. For instance, on her child’s third birthday, she noted the favorite color, personality traits, and her excitement about their future. These emails capture everything from lighthearted phrases to significant milestones, ensuring that the ordinary magic of childhood is preserved. “I never want to forget the way you call your Chicago Bears blanket your ‘gummy bear blanket,’” she recalled, emphasizing how quickly children grow and change.
Writing during difficult times is equally essential in her practice. Mora shares her challenges, conveying to her children that love remains unwavering, even amid struggles. She candidly described a recent email addressing her child’s fierce personality: “Your fierce personality has been testing my limits lately… but I keep reminding myself you’ll use it for good one day.” This honest reflection helps her process emotions and reinforces the bond with her kids.
Mora has future milestones in mind when envisioning how her children will receive these emails, such as turning 18 or graduating school. “I hope to live a long, healthy life and see my children grow into adults,” she said. While she writes out of love, she acknowledges that life can be unpredictable. Should tragedy arise, these emails would serve as a testament to her children’s irreplaceable worth and the love that always surrounds them.
For those inspired to follow suit, Mora encourages parents to create an email address for their child, regardless of their age. A simple note expressing love, hopes, and observations provides a meaningful starting point. Setting reminders around important dates can help maintain the practice, ensuring that these heartfelt messages continue over the years. “You don’t need to be a writer. Just make it honest and make it yours,” she advises, knowing that, in time, these words will become a cherished legacy for the next generation.
Kelsey Mora is a Certified Child Life Specialist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor dedicated to supporting families affected by medical conditions and life stress. As a private practice owner and the creator of The Method Workbooks, she aims to empower parents with custom resources and guidance.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/04/parenting-expert-this-is-one-of-the-best-things-i-did-when-my-kids-were-born.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-10-04 18:30:00
