Hi, I'm Emilia Isabelle

Christmas Through The Eyes of My 7 Year Old

When people ask children what they want for Christmas, you expect a list. Toys, games, gadgets and things wrapped in sparkly paper. So when everyone asked my son what he wanted this year, I was quietly taken aback by his answer.

All he wanted was, in his own words was a nice life with me in our new house. I asked him so many times. In fact, Santa even asked him at the grotto, as did the elves, and he replied the same thing over and over. I got to hear that magic echo all throughout my Christmas, and for that, I feel so grateful.

That was it (and Beyblades), but there was no obsession with presents. No big demands. Just a single deeply meaningful wish rooted in togetherness and safety. Honestly, I don’t think there’s a better definition of Christmas than that.

Of course, when the big day came and Santa left his Christmas sack, he enjoyed opening gifts he is only seven, after all. But what really stood out to me was how clearly he understands the value of time. This hasn’t only been prevelant at Christmas, but consistently. Quality time, family time, and being together.

For his 7th birthday, when asked what he wanted, his wish was just as telling. He didn’t ask for a party venue or piles of presents. He wanted a dinner with his grandparents and cousins. A table full of familiar faces, laughter, connection and of course great food.

I may be naive, but to me, I believe that’s rare for a child his age. Particularly in a world that constantly pushes more. Where more always means better, more stuff, more noise, more excitement. He’s instinctively drawn to the small things that actually matter. Time with people he loves, memories that he can create that feel warm and steady, and a sense of belonging.

It makes me stop and reflect on what children really need and not just children but adults too. It’s not about perfection or living in excess, instead its about presence. The feeling of being held emotionally, even when nothing extraordinary, is happening.
If I’m doing something right as a parent, it’s that.

I can’t take credit for who he is. Children come into this world with their own wisdom, and it’s nurtured by all those who surround him, but I can promise him this: I will give him the life he asked for. A life that is calm, a safe home, and a life where time together is valued, protected, and never treated as an afterthought.

Christmas has a funny way of revealing what truly matters. This year, my son reminded me that the greatest gift isn’t found under the tree. It’s found in simplicity, presence and genuine interactions.

Fortunately for me, this is a gift that’s something I’ll carry with me long after the decorations come down.