You're spot on about the sense of satisfaction and relief that comes with witnessing our children displaying positive traits! I do feel proud when my son shows empathy, especially towards other kids. That has been a momentous milestone for me as a parent - realizing that the values and lessons we've tried to impart are sinking in. It's a humbling and gratifying experience.
As much as we anticipate and celebrate these milestones, it's also important to remember that every child grows at their own pace. Some take longer than others to achieve certain milestones, and that's okay too. We must remind ourselves not to get competitive or compare our children's progress with others'. I'm curious if any parents have experiences they'd like to share on this forum about unique milestones they celebrate or found particularly meaningful.