When my son Mick was about 4 years old, I was talking with him while he was taking a bath before bed.
It was one of those quiet times when you get these overwhelming feelings of love for someone. I felt such a strong connection at that moment that I asked him, “Do you think it’s possible for a parent to also be their child’s best friend?”
He continued playing in the water with his toy and without looking up, replied, “No. because they’re the parent… but… it’s the same thing.”
TAKEAWAY: Your child’s perception of you is “the parent”. Embrace it and be it as best you can.