This morning I fully expected K to wake up with the injustice of the previous night on her brain. Instead, she did not mention a word about it until bedtime tonight when she pulled the 'snake friend' from the drawer where the boys store their lovies and placed it lovingly in R's bed. "Aww, he'll like cuddling with him," she said. Sweet girl!
When I went to pick the trio up from school it was a gorgeous 72 degrees under clear, sunny skies. So, I did something seemingly crazy--I suggested we revisit the fair. This time the ground rules were clear: We were going to see the animals (livestock and exotic). We would not ride any rides or play any games. I made each of the children assure me that they were aware of and amenable to this plan... AND IT WORKED!
We spent 2 hours (and under $10) enjoying cows, pigs, baby chickens, goats and sheep. We watched two sheep be shorn. (Is that correct grammar? I am not up on my livestock/agricultural terms!)
We moved on to the exotic animals (lemurs, camels, peacocks, zebra, donkey, kangaroos) and even manged to meet some 'Army men' and explore their vehicles in the process. We saw friends, had homemade potato chips and enjoyed a gorgeous Fall afternoon meltdown free. We were not rushed. We were not trying to 'cram all the activity in.' We took our time. We had no agenda. The children were delighted! Their behavior was terrific and I enjoyed being with them.
I was reminded that ground rules are my friend--and overindulgence is my enemy. Too many treats, too many options, too much temptation and sensory overload rarely lead to fun times. It generally starts well and feels good until the almost-certain meltdown begins.
It is true of 4 year olds, 34 year olds, national ecomonies and lots of other scenarios in between. Restraint is a good thing.
8 comments:
What a great idea about the 2nd trip to the fair. We took our 2 munchkins to our state fair today and did the "trying to cram as much in thing" :) Luckily we didn't have any major meltdowns. Of course now I'm going to hear everyday about wanting to go back and do the rides and such.....Thankfully there is Halloween and the Holidays to redirect them. I really enjoy reading your blog.
That is so true. I love reading your blog and learning for the experiences you are having with your children. Your such a Godly example. Thank you!
This is an EXCELLENT quote: "I was reminded that ground rules are my friend--and overindulgence is my enemy. Too many treats, too many options, too much temptation and sensory overload rarely leads to fun times. " I see it time and time again in my job as an early intervention specialist!
Your children are so blessed to have you! I really enjoy reading your blog. It is truly inspiring! Thank you.
I relied heavily on ground rules when my children were young. Even when running errands, I would spend our time in the car spelling out what we would be doing.
As far as cramming too much in, the same holds true for teenagers. A trip to Boston two years ago was so jam packed with "seeing the sights" that we ended up with some sullen kids.
Coming from farm country - I think "shorn" is a fine word.
I love the fact that you took the kids back to the fair and it was a positive experience for all...
I could not have made it 27 years of teaching first grade w/out ground rules...
As always, I love your blog!
Ms.~K
http://kit-dogdaze.blogspot.com/
Hi,
I really like how you split it into 2 different days. Theres so much to see at a fair and why cram it all in in 1 visit. And for $10? You cant beat that with a stick.
Yes, we all have to cut back. There can be too many treats.
Love your blog. Im an everyday reader.
-Shannon in Austin
I'm so glad you all had a wonderful time!! --This may seem weird, or out of place, but one of my favorite "mommyisms" is "Too much laughing leads to crying." When we're trying to cram too much fun into something it is usually proved true. Slowing down is really the ticket!!
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