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Whatever Works
Monday, August 02, 2010 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
I'm a working mama ("outside the household" - www.planningfamily.com/blog/kate-gosselin/). It isn't always easy to keep balance in our lives, but when all is right in the world, you'll find me out and about in the neighborhood at 6:45am with the stroller and my two labs on a leash.
With two 55 pound dogs and one jogger stroller, I'm quite the sight. Most folks know me. Those who don't, smile and says things like "Now that's multi-tasking!" I just smirk and attempt to keep moving foward. During this time, the munchkin eats a good breakfast and we ramble on about the day ahead. I love this time. It's quiet in the neighborhood, I get some exercise and, even when it isn't easy trying to get everyone to move forward at the same time, it works for me.
Sometimes in parenthood, we have to think outside the box. We have to do things that are a bit unconventional. We have to do what works for our child, for our family. I was reminded of this during my "parade" through the neighborhood the other morning.
As I was out on my morning trek, I came across another family. It was just before 7am. They weren't walking. Instead, they were in their yard, hose on, toddler in bedclothes, and frolicking in the water. When they saw me, they said "Yeah, we know...it's a little early for playing in the water." My response: "Whatever works." They smiled and all continued to enjoy the early morning water play.
Have you been there? I certainly have. Sometimes, 7am is mid-day. Sometimes, you've read books, ate breakfast, and are dressed. What to do? As this family did, you find what works for your child. Even if it means 7am and sprinker fun, you do it. There's nothing wrong with doing things a bit differently, doing things at times that work for your child. That is meeting your child's developmental needs and it's one of the best things you can do to support their development.
Hope you are enjoying some early morning walks or sprinkler fun these summer days!
Cheers-
