Parenting is supposed to be fun. Seeing you child learn something new has always been an exciting time for me. I loved watching their reaction when my boys experienced something new. Facial expressions say so much. The look of awe, wonder, fear, and laughter sparks a reaction in the parent like no other.
When children do not learn as quickly as others parents start to get nervous and start to question their parenting and/or their children's ability. All children learn at different paces. In today's society, we as parents and educators have a habit of rushing a child keep up with other children around them. Standardized tests, private schools, and a report card of all straight A's can be very overwhelming for children. Especially those children who are not ready to learn those skills. It's okay if a child isn't keeping up with the Jones. Let your child learn at their own pace. By all means challenge your children educationally, but if you find them struggling, slow down and let them lead.
When I was young I remember my mother teaching me how to tell time. For the life of me I didn't understand. All those numbers around the clock, then another set of numbers going around the clock. Then you throw in a second hand also going around the clock? I would stare at the clock and simply see the numbers 1 through 12. What in the world was my mother talking about?
Then one day, out of nowhere I looked at the clock, and something just clicked. Suddenly, for no reason at all, everything my mother said made sense. I understood all the numbers and what they represented, and what she meant. I understood the second hand, EVERYTHING!
The truth is, my brain just wasn't ready to understand what she said. My brain still needed time to form, to process, to adjust, to think it through. When I was ready, the lesson clicked and made perfect sense. This is why I say challenge your children. You are testing to see if they are ready, if not, that is okay. Step back and wait, test again. I promise you, it WILL all make sense. Give them time, give them room.
Let your children play. Play is the most important thing children can do. That is their job. Children learn through play. That is why songs are sung in preschool, why acronyms were created, why role playing is so important.
Get dirty with your kids, play in the dirt, swim in the ocean, sing songs, count, read, laugh, cook with your children. I promise, they are learning everyday, and if we are paying attention, so are we.
Enjoy the Moments, Cherish the Memories!
Until Next Time - Cynthia
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