"Wow, they are getting old!"

I've said this.  My dad has said this, both when I was younger, and again recently.  It's something all parents say and it's inevitable.  Our kids are growing at an alarming pace, and there is nothing we can do to stop it.  That can be overwhelming to think about sometimes.  But that shouldn't stop us from doing everything we can to help it.  And there is plenty we can do to help it.  There  are teachable moments everyday; about how to treat others, how to act in public, what to avoid, how things work, why things happen and so much more.  Don't think everything that happens in the "day-to-day," is beyond their young minds.  If they are seeing it, they probably want to know about it or have questions about it.  Obviously use judgement as to how much or what is appropriate, but don't just pass everything off as inexplicable to a young child.  Find a way to explain it to them so they can understand.  It's a good mind exercise for us, too, to explain something in a more simple way.  Your kids should be used to you talking to them about stuff so it's no always about discipline, or "no," or being after them to do stuff around the house.  My son has asked me some of the most amazing questions and even given some awesome perspective on things when I've made an extra effort to tell him about or point out things from our day. 

If we live life along side of our kids (but still always be parents and parental and all of that when it's necessary) and not just "above them," all the time, it benefits us both and it helps this alarming rate of growth produce more capable, well rounded children.  Rapid growth works best when well guided, not left to happen on it's own.  It all comes back to being there for them.  I think it's tempting to sit back and say "Well, they have their moms now, and pre-schools and nurseries and whatever, I'll be more involved when they can throw, or do sports or just interact with me more."  But the impressions of a father on young children should never be overlooked.  It sets the stage and foundation for your involvement, their comfort level of you and your effectiveness for the ups and downs ahead.  Remember, you're growing (as to avoid the term "aging") at just as nearly an alarming pace as they are, and this is time neither of you will get back.