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Grown Up Poem
Children grow up much faster than parents expect. One Christmas they are delighted with toys and simple surprises, and before long their wishes have changed along with their interests. In this funny poem, Edgar A. Guest captures that familiar moment with warmth and humor, reminding us how quickly childhood passes.
Whether you are a parent, grandparent, or simply remember those special Christmas mornings, these verses are sure to bring a smile. If you enjoy lighthearted poetry with a meaningful message, be sure to explore more of our Funny Famous Poems. You will also find additional poems about growing up later on this page.
Updated October 5, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Grown-Up
Poet: Edgar A. Guest
Last year he wanted building blocks,
And picture books and toys,
A saddle horse that gayly rocks,
And games for little boys.
But now he's big and all that stuff
His whim no longer suits;
He tells us that he's old enough
To ask for rubber boots.
Last year whatever Santa brought
Delighted him to own;
He never gave his wants a thought
Nor made his wishes known.
But now he says he wants a gun,
The kind that really shoots,
And I'm confronted with a son
Demanding rubber boots.
The baby that we used to know
Has somehow slipped away,
And when or where he chanced to go
Not one of us can say.
But here's a helter-skelter lad
That to me nightly scoots
And boldly wishes that he had
A pair of rubber boots.
I'll bet old Santa Claus will sigh
When down our flue he comes,
And seeks the babe that used to lie
And suck his tiny thumbs,
And finds within that little bed
A grown up boy who hoots
At building blocks, and wants instead
A pair of rubber boots.
Key Reflections In This Poem
-
Children Grow Up Quickly
The poem reminds us how quickly childhood passes. One year a child is happy with simple toys, and before long those interests have changed. It encourages us to treasure each stage because time moves faster than we often realize.
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Every Stage Brings New Dreams
As children grow, their wishes and priorities naturally change. What once seemed exciting is replaced by new goals and interests. Growing up is part of life's journey, and each stage brings fresh opportunities to learn and mature.
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Christmas Is About More Than Gifts
While the poem centers on Christmas presents, it also reminds us that the greatest joy comes from sharing the season with those we love. Family traditions and memories often become more valuable than the gifts themselves.
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Humor Helps Us Accept Change
Edgar A. Guest uses gentle humor to show that growing up is a natural part of life. Parents may miss the little child they once knew, but they can also celebrate the young person their child is becoming.
Popular Pages
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Reflect on how quickly life passes with our collection of Poems About Time.
Conclusion
Edgar A. Guest reminds us that growing up happens one small step at a time. The toys that once brought excitement are soon replaced by new interests, and before we know it, childhood has become a treasured memory. While this poem makes us smile, it also encourages us to appreciate each stage of life and the special moments we share with those we love. May it inspire you to cherish today's memories, because they often become tomorrow's happiest memories.
More Funny Famous Poems
Related Poems About Growing Up
If you enjoyed Edgar A. Guest's humorous look at growing up, these poems explore the same theme from different perspectives. Some are lighthearted, while others encourage reflection on how quickly life changes as we grow older.
Grown-Up
Poet: Edna St. Vincent Millay
Was it for this I uttered prayers,
And sobbed and cursed and kicked the stairs,
That now, domestic as a plate,
I should retire at half-past eight?
Each Stage
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
Each stage of life has much to give,
New things to learn as we grow and live.
From childhood days when we laugh and play,
To dreams that guide us along the way.
As years go by, our lives will change,
Our hopes and goals may rearrange.
So enjoy each stage and all it brings,
For every season teaches us things.
Don't Wish Your Life Away
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
When I was young, I couldn't wait,
To grow up fast and change my fate.
My mother smiled and used to say,
"My child, don't wish your life away."
At the time I did not understand,
I wanted freedom close at hand.
But now I know her words were true,
The years pass quickly, as they do.
So enjoy today and what it brings,
The simple joys, the little things.
Don't rush tomorrow on its way,
Be thankful for the gift of today.
Where Did The Time Go
Poet: Catherine Pulsifer
Where did the time go, I often say,
It seems the years just slipped away.
When I was young, I wished to be
All grown up and finally free.
But growing older helped me see,
Life isn't always what we think it will be.
Each age has challenges, joys, and fun,
And lessons to learn before it is done.
So now I try to enjoy each day,
And treasure the moments along the way.
For time moves on, this much I know,
And much too soon we ask, "Where did it go?"
Each stage of life brings its own joys, challenges, and lessons. We hope these poems have brought a smile to your face and reminded you to appreciate the journey of growing up, one day at a time.