SELF-LOVE: Dwell on something good. Sometimes, I start to worry about the future or the impact this might have on our culture, society, economy, etc.,etc., etc. Then I try to remember that the human spirit is much stronger than, and has persevered through much worse in terms of disease, famine, war and economic devastation. I recall the stories of my grandparents on both my mother and father’s side who were children during the Great Depression. They told stories of hope and generosity even in those darkest of times. I think of the words of Howard Zinn who said “To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage and kindness.” Then I start to feel a little better.
PARENTING TIP: If you have more than one child, find a way to get some 1:1 time with each child. With everyone living under one roof all the time-this can feel even more challenging! Yet children may be missing even the unplanned attention they may have gotten by running an errand together or a scheduled activity you did just the two of you. Try taking just one child for a walk one evening, or having 10 minutes of play time with one while the other has cozy time with an audio book, or is with another parent. Sometimes that extra love will go a long way in filling their cup and helping reset their emotional resiliency stores for the day ahead.
INDOOR ACTIVITY: Increase independent play by setting the scene. In Reggio Emilia inspired schools, we call this "provocations." Try moving things to different areas of the house like bringing their trains to the kitchen table, setting up the blocks with their dinosaurs before they enter the playroom, or putting art supplies out with paper, glue sticks and scissors all set up in an inviting way. This is also a great way for you to encourage your child to play with less favored toys or activities!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY: Obstacle course! Make an obstacle course in chalk on your sidewalk for your child. Bonus: watch the local kids do it when they walk by. Make your child’s day and give another family something to look forward to when they are out on a walk. Your child can even write simple things like jump, spin, pose, roar, etc inside of chalk shapes.