SELF LOVE:
Wave don't drown. This is a mantra my husband and I remind one another often, and has become especially pertinent during this time. It seems every day adds more to our emotional and perhaps spiritual burden right now. Whether existentially or purely practical as we continue to parent through this pandemic, let someone know you are struggling. You may just need a listening ear, or perhaps they might be able to help you identify one small shift that would help.
PARENTING TIP:
Talking to your children about race. Being a white woman raising three white children, the first place I've found helpful to start is with just that. Start. Don't be afraid to talk about difference, or look nervously away when your child asks why someone has dark skin. Encourage your child to ask questions and be curious about race instead of teaching that the subject makes you uncomfortable. A simple "Yes you're right they have darker skin than you. We're all different and beautiful shades actually." Try to seek out doctors, dentists, or other professionals your child may interact with to be people of color, especially African Americans. Make sure to include lots of books, dolls, and toys that represent children from other racial backgrounds than your own. Patrick's favorites at the moment is Jabari Jumps which tells a beautiful story of a little boy learning to jump off the diving board with his dad's support. Here is a list from Embrace Race and don't forget their free webinar Tuesday evening!
INDOOR ACTIVITY:
(Sensory/Independent play) Play-dough with pipe cleaners and googly eyes. The creativity and possibilities are endless! Here's our playdough recipe again if you missed it before. It's my mom's recipe circa 1980-still the best one out there! 1/2 c Salt, 1 C four. 2 TLB cream of tarter 1 Tlb oil 1 C water. A few drops of food coloring. Mix all in a medium saucepan over low heat. As the playdough begins to form a ball, turn off heat and knead on a floured surface. Once it has cooled down, be sure to give your child some warm play-dough to knead. Try adding essential oils or glitter for an added sensory experience!
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY:
Cookie Cutter Water Color. Children will delight in the magic of print making as you reveal the shape they've made. Younger toddlers can do simple shapes!