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Play the Game
Monday, August 09, 2010 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
I don't know about you, but weekday mornings are the hardest (or should I say "the most challenging") part of our day in our household. We're up a good three hours before we head out anywhere. Still, it doesn't seem there's enough time. With the munchkin (now a toddler), there's her one "movie" (meaning one mama-approved DVD show (i.e. "Dora" episode) = mama gets her shower and gets dressed), breakfast (also known as reading time and dancing time), followed by a few minutes of playtime in the playroom, and finally, the tasks of getting dressed, teeth brushed and hair combed. After all that, it's simply a matter of trying to make sure all else is together to take on the day successfully.
If you've been reading this blog for any period of time, you know I enjoy this journey called parenthood www.planningfamily.com/blog/magic-in-the-mundane/). I'm not going to lie to you either. Sometimes, I too have my moments (www.planningfamily.com/blog/awful/).
Recently, I had one of those mornings. We were running late. Again (thank goodness for understanding employers). I was growing more and more frustrated by the second. Usually, I am as patient as a Saint
. Usually
. I began ordering that socks were put on. I began ordering that teeth were brushed. I began ordering that the munchkin get her shoes. That day, I forgot how to "play the game." It was a harsh reminder that none of us enjoy being micro-managed.
What "game"?
Isn't it lovely when your boss or spouse/significant other comes in and says "Do this." Wouldn't it be a wonderful world if they asked "Would you like to do this?" instead? Or perhaps even better: "Would you like to do this OR this?" Ah, the magic of choices. The magic of empowering another. The magic of playing "the game."
If you have a toddler, chances are there are times when you too need to find a different way to get from point A to point B. The toddler times are the first times munchkins begin exerting their independence. Though this may often drive us a little nutty, I remind myself (and you) that this is exciting growth and development. This is what should be happening - the munchkin is learning to think for themself. What magic!
What's working for you? What games are you playing these days?
