We're getting back into the thick of it. And with four out of my five kids in something now, let me tell you, it is thick. I never know that perfect balance between too few and too many extra curricular activities. I really believe it is important not to over-schedule kids, as it robs them of those childhood moments to learn, play, and grow. I read a book once-- Einstein Never Used Flashcards, it really emphasized the learning that is going on during simple play-- that our kids need some unstructured, creative, curiosity-led time for optimum development. (see the schedule of another mother of five kids here)
But, like I said, I never know the perfect balance. I feel that allowing my kids one sport and one musical instrument shouldn't be over-scheduled, but some days it sure feels like it! This is one I'm still trying to figure out.
Once one has decided upon the right balance for their family and each individual child, there is still the act of taking children back and forth to these activities. While some acts of service are easy for me, such as making birthdays special and comforting a sick or hurt child, the act of busing my kids around is hard for me. I think it goes back in part to the interruption factor-- one must interrupt dinner, other kid's homework and other things to take kids back and forth. (it took me 2 days to make a pie for my friend for this reason)
So, in order to have a good attitude about this activity, I've brainstormed a list to help me be positive about this particular act of service.
1) Make simple meals and plan ahead. Otherwise, it is too tempting to eat unhealthily and also expensively.
2) Make the most of time in the car. This could include a favorite audio book, CD, or discussion. This is a great time to talk, re-connect and be together since everyone is in a confined space.
3) Take time to enjoy the journey and not just the destination-- this is a time to look around (within reason) and enjoy the seasons.
4) Be mindful of the good things about my particular situation.
For me this week, that meant:
* Enjoying the outdoors-- the mountains were breathtaking in all their autumn glory! And I got to sit outside and enjoy it all, which I wouldn't have done if we didn't have a soccer game to attend.
* Recognizing my other kids get extra outside play time when we travel to sports events.
* My kids also get a chance to learn how to interact with kids they don't know.
* Realizing that while I'm watching a game I also get to hold my little ones more than I would if I were home.
5) Plan and prioritize. Make time for homework, play, and other activities. If you are too busy for homework or church activities, then maybe it is time to think of cutting back.
6) Ultimately recognize the growth of self-esteem and worth in your child as he/she learns to make and set goals, be a team player, and learn a new skill. If I look to the long-term person my child is becoming, those small sacrifices don't seem so great.
Again, I'm looking back to my own childhood, and remembering that I don't remember my parents complaining about this kind of stuff. And I don't want to make my kids feel like a burden by complaining about it either. So I'm going to make the best of it. And maybe it will just make the best of all of us.
How do you make the best of busy days shuttling little people around?
PS, if you need a laugh today, read this. It reminded me of my husband, who also says things like this. Sort of.
No comments:
Post a Comment