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Mismatch
Thursday, September 30, 2010 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Toddlers. I love them. Actually, I've loved every stage of "the game," but there's something especially awesome about toddlers. All of a sudden, you really see this little person blossoming. Not only are they rapidly gaining the physical skills to do what they want, when they want (even if you don't want them too!), but they are rapidly acquiring the language skills to communicate (www.planningfamily.com/toddler/development/should-my-toddler-be-speaking-yet/).
Is your toddler showing preferences for toys, foods, and even their clothes?
I love the mismatched toddler. You know, the toddler who decides that the fuzzy pink striped pants will look best with the flowery green shirt and should be topped off by the purple polka dotted rain boots. Ah, perfect!
Do you let them go out of the house this way?
Should you let them go out of the house this way?
Absolutely! The question really is, "why not?"
Let's face it, much of our child's day is dictated by what we believe is best for them. It is dictated sometimes by our needs (as in, "I need to go to work, so you go here...").
We need to empower our children when we can. Raising a toddler can be *trying* at times
. They can have strong opinions and are not afraid to tell us how they really feel. Some things - like safety ("No, I cannot let you stage dive off the kitchen table) are non-negotiable. Others - like mismatched clothes - are a great way to provide your child with the chance to make decisions and express themself.
What is your child wearing these days?
