Aww! This Touching Moment Between Jennica Garcia And Daughter Proves That Kids Remember

On Sunday, actress and single mom of two Jennica Garcia shared on Facebook a mom-and-daughter moment that touched her heart.

While they were waiting for their ride to arrive, she had a conversation with her 5-year-old daughter Alessi about taking photos.

"In the past, Alessi asked me why I take pictures of her and her Ate so much with my film camera. I said it’s my only means of freezing time. I explained further and forgot about it eventually until last night’s event," she wrote.

July 15 was her eldest daughter's Mori’s 8th Birthday. The actress said they spent the day playing in the mall. "It was a looong day, we had so much fun!"

"While waiting for our Grab to arrive, Alessi took her toy camera and asked Mori to pose for her. Mori got tired of posing overtime and Alessi said something that touched my heart. 

“Ate Mori please, I’m freezing time. I like seeing you happy and you’re so beautiful.” Alessi remembered!!!" Jennica exclaimed.

She then shared the photos taken by her daughter. She concluded her post, "Thank you Lord for giving me the best gift in Mori and Alessi. They are such beautiful, kind and sensitive souls."

Jennica's story is a poignant reminder that our kids remember what we tell them, and even more so when they see us doing it.

"Monkey see, monkey do," Jennica captioned one of their photos.

READ ALSO: Single Mom Jennica Garcia Nangako Sa Mga Anak: 'Nanay Got This, Buhat Ko Kayo Lagi'

Understanding how our kids understand

In an article by Psychology Today, Krystine I. Batcho Ph.D. discussed which memories children carry into adulthood. Here are the important points that we could relate to Jennica's experience:

1. What do kids remember?

As parents, we often go to great lengths for our children, such as leaving our careers to be stay-at-home parents or sacrificing our sleep to balance work and parenting. Personally, I believe that our children don't necessarily have to be aware of or remember the specific sacrifices we make for them. What truly matters is that they understand and feel the love we have for them.

Dr. Batcho wrote in her piece that the most memorable childhood experiences with parents are often ordinary interactions that reflect the bond between child and parent, such as engaging in shared activities or spending quality time together. 

READ ALSO: ‘I Don’t Want My Children To Live A Sad Life’ Jennica Garcia Recalls How She Became A Solo Parent

2. Ordinary experiences hold lasting value

This is because these experiences demonstrate the stability and reliability of the parent-child relationship, fostering trust and a sense of togetherness.

You don't have to go to Disneyland yearly to make beautiful memories. Dr. Batcho mentioned that what's important is that a child sees consistency in what their parent does for them. If the parent tries to be present in their playtime, chances are they would remember that more than big ticket items like an expensive birthday gift or an out-of-the-country trip. 

3. Children remember not only the happy times but also how their parents supported them.

May it be through difficult moments, offering love, wisdom, and guidance, which contribute to their sense of identity and resilience.

"It might well be that your children know they are loved, even though you don’t tell them you love them. And your children might know you are proud of them, even though you never tell them you are. But if you do say, “I love you, “ and “I’m proud of you,” those words will be among their most powerful and most meaningful lasting memories," Dr. Batcho said.

How to prevent a separation from ruining your child's memories of mom and dad? Read here.