This new year, 2014, marks my third year as an Edmond mom. And while I can't boast any Parent of the Year awards or children who read in Spanish by age three, I do know a little something about keeping my head above water as a mama of two munchkins who are quickly learning how to make me march to their cute little off-key tunes.
So, in thinking about New Year's resolutions and becoming an improved version of myself, I realized that I will always do my best at parenting, but that I can always do better. Okay, so maybe you have a house any germaphobe would be proud of, or your kids always say "please" and "thank you" with the most gracious of smiles. Or maybe Martha Stewart calls you for cooking, decorating, and craft advice. I'm sending a round of applause your way. Really. But what about the rest of us? What small changes can we make to be even better examples to our kids and teach them the things that school can't?
Here's a few, unscientific ideas...
Learn more. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Georgia Aquarium with my three-year-old. The result? We now have discussions about whale sharks, nocturnal animals, aquatic feeding habits, octopus ink, and why we would never want to touch jellyfish (even though they're very pretty).
Lesson here? I'm not my daughter's classroom teacher, but as a parent, I get the very cool job of taking her places that will make learning not only fun, but so experiential that she's likely to remember that Beluga whales swim in very cold water and alligators are sometimes albino. Cool.
Read more. Everyone rolls their eyes at me on this one. Whatever. There's plenty of research that points to the overwhelmingly positive link between reading and success in school, college, and life. And if you look at some of the most successful Americans, they've been inspired to greatness by what they've read. So there (insert sticking out of tongue).
And really, I'm not just saying this because I'm a writer, but you should read with your kids. And your kids should spend time reading. And you should spend time reading, because children model the behaviors of their parents (just ask my daughter, who now has road rage at age three because of my stellar example). Point made.
Give more. Generosity is a hallmark of the American spirit, didn't you know? I realize we complain about foreign aid and other countries hating us anyway and blah, blah, blah. But if you believe in karma or blessings or in being a better person, remember that no one was ever criticized for giving too much. And Edmond abounds with charities, where not only money, but food items, clothing, and time are in short supply. And how much will your own heart be touched when you see your child respond to others with a spirit of generosity and kindness?
Play more. We have parks in Edmond. An ice rink. Bowling alleys. Water parks. If it's snowing outside, build a blanket fort or have a snowball fight. Do not just sit on the sofa and watch Honey Boo Boo. You are throwing your life down the garbage disposal. Get out with your kids and live it up!
Share more. And finally, go beyond giving to the stranger. Now's the time, more than ever, to patch things up with family, reconnect with a friend, or spend some time with someone who may not have much time left. Work will always be there. Candy Crush and your IPad aren't going anywhere either.
I've lost several dear people this year, and in this new year, I know one thing for certain: Life is too short not to be a people person. Make playdates and social gatherings a priority. Believe me, those kids won't suffer for it. If anything, you might actually have that shot at Parent of the Year.
Happy New Year!
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