You hear a lot of talk about giving children freedom: freedom to play, freedom to move, freedom to trust their own bodies. This doesn't mean lazy or detached parenting. It means taking the time to play with your child, explore with your child and eventually letting go so your child can do these things with out you.
Last weekend we went to the park. My son wanted to climb a large climbing structure that led to a big swirly slide. I want to say the structure was about 6 ft high. My son is 20 months old. A boy who looked to be about a year older than my son climbed about halfway up the structure when his mother came hurrying up saying, "Oh no honey! That's for big boys."
Bug had his heart set on climbing it, and I have spent enough time with him in play that I knew he could do it. I trusted him, and he was about to learn to trust himself.
He got stuck at this point for a while, trying to figure out what to do next.
Sometimes, taking a step back is hard. Notice the hand wringing and pursed lips!
And he did it! That's my boy!
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I LOVE this post! I have similar pictures of my 22 month old climbing a latter like this. I've had another Mom rush to "save" him before (as I was standing next to him). I politly told her that he was ok. She stood there with her mouth open watching. I bet she'd be amazed at what her child could do too...if given the opportunity! Children are such amazing beings!
ReplyDeleteWill you please GROUND that child? He is NOT allowed to grow up anymore and supposed to stay that happy baby forever!!! I think it's time you have another one for me to play with!!! ;-)
ReplyDeleteYOU are a wonderful Mom!! And your children are surely blessed to have you. Continue all your great work and sharing it with us:-)
ReplyDeleteI loved this post...i just wrote something very similar about my 20 mth old twins...i have one that is a monkey and although i am astounded each day by the new skills she is practising...i still get the hand wringing and pursed lips too!!!
ReplyDeleteLove the pics!
I've been there - letting my child climb when all the other mums are dragging their older kids away. Good for you. great post
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with yuor approach and looks like the children are learning and having a great time there. Please link up to Country Kids with me on this one too
ReplyDeleteLove it. My youngest boy is just the same.
ReplyDeleteYou are brave! My fear is not them doing it, but if they do get stuck could I do it to get them down! he he Lovely that you have so much trust in him. Thanks for linking to Family Frolics.
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