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I Have A Dream
Monday, January 16, 2012 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
The moment we become parents, our dreams take on new meaning. For many of us, our dreams aren't about us anymore at all. They are the future of our children. Our hopes, our visions, our goals all of a sudden lie in our children's happiness, in their well-being.
Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. It is a great reminder of the dreams each of us have and the opportunity each of our children deserve.
Need a refresher in history class?
How will you celebrate and educate the holiday with your child?
Yes, I know. There are a lot of deep and big issues that may seem a little too complex in tackling with your little one today.
How can you explain the impact of Dr. King's work to an infant or toddler or preschooler? Do you even try? Is it appropriate?
As I mentioned before, I'm an "everything in moderation" kind of gal. That philosophy comes into parenting too, especially when it comes to educating my child about the great, big world out there.
I do believe there is a developmentally appropriate place and plan for educating even the youngest children about today's significance.
It doesn't have to be deep or grand. It can be simple and sweet. It can be meaningful.
In our household, we start by acknowledging that today is a special day: "Today is a special day. It's Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a very special person who helped ensure that all people could be who they want to be."
If you're lucky enough to live in a community where there are public celebrations, now is the time to start checking them out. Don't worry about making it through a full ceremony or speech. Enjoy a few minutes of celebratory music, a work of art, or even people that you may not have the opportunity to generally connect with. You may be surprised how much you learn through these types of outings (not to mention your child).
However, it is worth the time to plant the seed of knowledge that will grow through the years. And who knows, you just might grow a little too.
Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
