I was that mom, who did not want messy high chairs, so I seldom let her eat by herself until I saw how fun and excited she was the first time she was able to feed herself. I was that mom who controls everything when the kids do some fun painting. I want to control the messy paints...for easy cleanup.
I worry too much about paint stains in their cute outfits.
I was that mom, who cringed when she plays with dirt, stepped on mud, or would pick up a soiled rock until I really looked into her eyes and noticed how happy she truly is! She was learning and having fun. Outdoors (and sunshine) do our soul and body good.
The latest research states that children who spend almost all day playing indoors (instead of outdoors-- in the dirt and sunshine), with unhealthy amounts of time with technology, have an increased risk of obesity, vitamin D
deficiency, depression, and also attention deficit hyperactivity
disorder. It is normal to worry about exposing our kids to germs and bacteria. Dirt shelters bacteria, so we have concerns. Studies now recommend playing in the dirt as a way to boost the body’s immune system, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. (Read: Hygiene Hypotheses ). I am not a professional nor an expert to tell you more about bacteria and germs.
I love how my girls would hand me some rocks and flowers. It is truly special because at that moment it is ONLY what they have and what they can only OFFER. They offered it to me because they found it and thought of it as a special gift for their momma.
I understand that every situation, place, and where you live differs. Access to parks or other recreational areas might be limited to your area. However, there is no limit to our creativity. A simple stroll outside is also beneficial. You can point to all the stimuli that your kid may find interesting and have that as a point of conversation and learning. Try a nature walk with a basket in tow to start a rock, leaves, and stick collection. Trust me on this: kids, as they grow up, their "collection" also grows. My youngest is now 7 years old and she still collects rocks!
If you are still worried about dirt, this is a good time to teach hygiene: washing hands after the
"exploration" with soap and water. Also, making sure that they take their vitamins regularly and up-to-date immunization will keep your mind at ease.
Meanwhile, enjoy that time ..they will never be that small again.
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Are you looking for ways to connect and strengthen your relationship with your children? Here's a must-read for parents.
Wonderful post! Some parents have gone over the edge in creating an overprotected world. Last weekend my family was at a state park and I actually heard a father telling his son not to run...in the outdoors. How sad.
ReplyDeleteHi Julie..thank you for taking the time to stop by , know that it is greatly appreciated. It is sad..yes it is a bacteria filled world out there but we have to find a happy medium on letting our kids..be kids. God bless!
DeleteI agree so much with you on this point...just last weekend my daughter went and played inside a fountain with her friends and got all wet. Though i was freaked out a little (i know, i am one of those mums) but i saw an amazing sense of joy in her and her friends that i just couldn't let go of. Thanks for sharing this great post on kids weekly co-op
ReplyDeleteHi Marwa! I still am..one of those moms too.. I still freak out every now and again..hah! I let it go..once I tune in to how truly they are having fun. Thank you for stopping by and taking the to comment.
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