It’s all child’s play for our kids
We put a lot of time and effort into educating our children. Getting them into the right schools, helping with homework, showing them how to brush their teeth, etc. All good things to shape and grow the next generation.
We tend to measure knowledge against age – the older we get the wiser we become.
But, don’t we all get caught up in being too ‘‘adult’’, being sensible, doing the expected, that we forget how to let go and relax? Is it any wonder so many of us suffer from anxiety?
I believe kids are great teachers (and they don’t muck about with organised lesson plans). They have this beautiful spontaneity to them that can often throws us oldies into a spin, because it just too unexpected.
Are we getting caught up being serious and sensible adults?
Kids teach us many things, but I think there are definitely
(at least) six things we would most certainly learn from them.
Kids are in the moment. They are here and now because where else is there, right? They demand we pay attention NOW not in two minutes because by then the moment has truly passed. Duh! Kids know that play is the most important thing.
Their priorities definitely involve mucking about, being silly and creative. Because these things fuel our sense of wellbeing, fun, connection and discovery. Play renews the soul.
Kids know that excitement is an everyday thing, not just for the weekend or holidays. Excitement is possible in every moment in every day, opportunities waiting to be paid attention to and be delighted in.
Kids know you can love anyone and everyone.
I love how kids form friendships, anyone is a potential friend. They give and receive love without a whole set of warped rules. They know it’s OK to show love and not need reciprocation. Love is just what you do.
Kids own it! When they do something spectacular, they own it! They rejoice in themselves and share what they have accomplished with everyone because ‘‘Hey, I did that and it was amazing! I’m awesome!’’ Kids are spontaneous, random as hell. Kids don’t make plans. Plans are too rigid and cause us to miss out on all the other stuff that could be happening.
They constantly grow and learn because they are open to the natural flow of life.
And that’s only six things! Their lessons are endless and bountiful, let’s not miss out on kiddy school, it could be the most valuable class we attend.
❚ Sahera Laing – Mental fitness consultant, columnist and speaker, saheralaing.com.