Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Enjoy the Simple Things...




Yesterday at preschool we planted sunflower seeds in little pots.  We put on gloves and used a tiny shovel to fill small pots with soil, and carefully poke the seeds into the soft, black dirt.  We were so excited to gently pour water over our newly planted seeds and give them their first drink.  Our little faces were so serious as we concentrated on each of these little acts--filling a pot with a shovel, carefully poking our seeds into the soil, slowly pouring the water from our colorful watering cans. Our excitement for the entire process could hardly be contained.  And our eagerness to be helpful, coupled with our curiosity at each little step touched deep into my heart.

It reminded me that childhood is a magical time.  Little ones may talk endlessly about Minecraft and Paw Patrol video games, but their desire for real world experiences trumps the virtual world every time!  The message is clear.  There is a time and place for I-pad or App entertainment, but children covet simple, real world experiences.  Don't forget to give them these.  Make it a practice to try new things with them.  You will discover that when you expand their experiences, you will have a lot of fun in the process.  Their joy is contagious.

Take them on a train ride.  Play at a new park.  Go to the zoo.  Take them to museums and concerts. Visit relatives who live in different areas.  Hike in a  forest preserve or state park.  Go to a sporting event--your local high school or college teams are a great place to find less expensive tickets to competitions.  Bake something together.  Take a bike ride.

Time spent with your children is never wasted.  Take advantage of their curiosity and enthusiasm and explore the world together making precious memories that will last a lifetime.

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