Categories
A Communal Transformative Hub-Tiny Tips For Moms and Dads Children and Family Advocates Early Childhood Education educators Embracing the Gift of Parenthood Parenting Tips

Tiny Tips 4 Moms and Dads #9- The Balancing Act to Make Sure Your Child’s Needs Are In Alignment –

Tiny Tips for Mom’s and Dad’s #9

It’s a Necessary Balancing Act to Make Sure Your Child’s Physical and Emotional Environment are Conducive to the Nature of “Your Child”.

***For translation of the text of the blog: touch the Blue Globe on the top right-hand corner

It is important that a child be surrounded by loved ones that are in tune to the nature of who they are and can respond to them in ways that meet their needs appropriately.

We as parents, caregivers, and nurturers have a responsibility to study our children very consistently and intentionally.  It is so important in terms of trying to learn the nature of who they are and what they need to flourish and become their divine and authentic selves in the world in which they will have to navigate their lives.  They must grow into confidence, self-acceptance, and most importantly-loving and respecting themselves.  Obviously, we play a huge part in crafting and designing the physical environment that our children live and play in, but even more critical is what the environments are that impact them emotionally.  Children do a lot of adapting to things and people and we have to be sensitive to how much we are expecting of them to do that.

We must be mindful of who we engage them with and if certain people illicit a positive or negative response from them.  I want to be clear!!! Children vibrate at a much higher vibrational level than we do.  Their senses are acute and highly sensitive to every sound, texture, and soul vibration that they encounter.  They don’t operate with the protective defensive filters that we create for ourselves as we evolve through our lifetime experiences.  Children are raw!! Children are clear!! Children are open and vulnerable to what comes into the sphere of their being.

They only have us to help support and protect them, until they mature to a space where they can ward off or articulate what they are or not comfortable with.  I actually have witnessed an infant become traumatized every time one of our friends would approach the front door.  She sensed something that she was uncomfortable with, and this happened every time!  Children can recognize the soul expression of people and they respond accordingly. Take note my friends and be sensitive to what they are expressing to you.

My other concern is that we make sure that in our daily activities that we engage children in support them having a balance of physically active activities and quiet reflective activities where they can sit and gather their thoughts and center their energy so that they don’t fall into a situation where they are always on high gear”.  There has to be high energy and quiet spaces in their daily routine. The activities they engage in and the spaces in which they engage, must compliment what is needed for their well-being.

It is our responsibility to make sure we provide the spaces to be in full physical expression as well as the quiet gentle places that they can retreat to.  One of those quiet, gentle, safe places just might be in your arms! It’s a balancing act! Also remember that no two children are alike, so you will have to support each child according to their unique divine identity.  It is a beautiful journey this “parenthood” and just think-you have been given the “Gift”!

Stay in Touch: http://heart4kidsadvocacy.org/

Thank You Jim Brickman for your beautiful music that vibrates through this recording. This is a selection from his album – “Music to Quiet Your Mind and Sooth Your World”.

 

Categories
A Communal Transformative Hub-Tiny Tips For Moms and Dads Early Childhood Education educators Embracing the Gift of Parenthood Parenting Tips

Tiny Tips 4 Moms and Dads #6-Parents Have to Make Time for “Time In”!

Tiny Tips for Moms and Dads # 6 – Parents Have to Make Time for “Time In”!

We need to support our children in expressing what they need from us.  It is important to give each child a “Sacred-Time In” with us!

***For translation: touch the Blue Globe on the top right hand corner

What does it mean this “Sacred -Time In”?  We all hear the about the punitive “Time Out”, that we as Early Childhood educators and children advocates deem- inappropriate!  In contrast to that “Time In”, refers to having an alone time, a special time, a mommy and me or daddy and me time.  It is the time that holds the opportunity for re-connection between parent and child.  It is the time for taking walks, going to the park to play, having meals together, reading stories, playing games, answering questions that have been on their mind, being completely and utterly available and attentive to “Just them”! It is about setting aside intentionally, time and space for them.  It is not getting on the phone or any other device that would distract you from being totally “present”.

I think perhaps that we feel that we are spending time with our children just by being in the same place at the same time.    The reality is, just because we are “With them”, it does not mean we are “Into Them”.  I observe my niece with her children, and she has made it clear with her children that if they need to have a “Special Day” or “Special Time” with her, all they need to do is to express their needs.  Together, she and her child or children have learned to ask for what they need.  In turn she and the child pick a day, make a list of the “To Do Things”, and seal it with a kiss. Snuggling is always part of the day’s agenda!  Lots of hugs and kisses!

 

Now of course there has to be a plan, not that it is written in stone!  But start out contemplating what you have the time and energy for before you even begin to enter into this contract because children are relentless!  When you make a promise be ready to keep it!  I would strongly suggest the following steps to this adventure into the “Sacred Time In” proposal:

  1. Figure out what you have the time and energy to invest in.
  2. Pick the date and time.
  3. Make sure you have taken care of yourself first so that you are really up to the adventure!
  4. With your child, or children, plan out the activities and evaluate what is and is not feasible in your “Sacred Time In”! Don’t overstretch yourself!! Sometimes it is better to take on one or two things to do and spread it out over a day or perhaps 2 days.  If you do too much you run the risk of things falling apart!
  5. Stay attentive and sensitive to your child’s energy as well. Sometimes they have big ideas but because they are children, just like you they get tired.  Look for the signals and if necessary, change plans that include postponing things, choosing other less strenuous activities, or just implement “snuggle time”-reading/ watching a show together/playing a game together.
  6. It is really ok to also admit that you are tired and need to call your won “Time In” to catch your breath and recharge. It works both ways, but you have to start out the way you want to end up.
  7. At the end of the “Sacred Time In”, set up a time when you can have a re-cap chat and talk about: What you both liked/What you did not like/What you would like to do again and even differently.
  8. Remember to take pictures so you have memories and for older children they could have a journal to write their memories in with pictures.

Trust me when I say these “Sacred Time In” events, will add so much to your relationship with your child!  Every child wants to feel they are special to their mommie and daddy!

It’s quite the balancing act, but somehow Lei pulls it off!

And now Aoluna is in the mix too.

One day at a time!!

Stay in Touch: http://heart4kidsadvocacy.org/ 

 

Categories
A Communal Transformative Hub-Tiny Tips For Moms and Dads Children and Family Advocates Children's Bill Of Rights Early Childhood Education educators Embracing the Gift of Parenthood Heart 4 kids Advocacy Organization Parenting Tips

Tiny Tips 4 Moms and Dads-#2- It’s a Big Job-But Somebody Has To Do It!

Tiny Tips for Moms and Dads#2

  It’s a big job-But Somebody Has to Do it!

         Clueing Into the Influencers in Our Child’s Life!

Oh, this is a big one in raising children!  We have to be constantly concerned that the people we are surrounding our children with, and even the people that are acquaintances are vetted by us.  I know to use the terminology- “vetted” seems serious, but if we do not take a serious look at the people that are influencing our children, we are leaving to chance, what their impact might be on not just them physically, but emotionally and psychologically!  There are also “Influencers” that impact our children in social media, and television content in programs that are geared for children.  These are times where the social engagement with children is off the chart in terms of securing their safety.  We as parents are the ones that are responsible for their safety and yes, it is a lot of work, but we have no choice!  We have to screen what they are exposed to in the world of technology.

There are so many hidden messages that are infused in what is supposed to be “children’s programing”, that I strongly suggest that if you are allowing your children to watch TV, or use the computer, that you not only set up guidelines of the “To do’s and the Not to do’s”, but that you are present in the room, or taking the time to engage in the watching of the tv program.  It is important for you to be eyes and ears, in what your child is being exposed to.  It is important that if questions come up in the process, that you are there to engage in the conversation.  The right information at the right time of your individual child’s maturation, is key to safeguarding your child’s innocence, and capability of processing information.  Have you ever observed that your child even has an emotional reaction to certain music. I observed that our kids get very sensitive to music in minor keys. Take note!

 

Then there is the interest and concern about who are the influencers that engage in our child’s life, and I don’t mean just friends and acquaintances!  Who are the members of our family that will be a positive stake holder in our child life and development?  Who are the family members who are healthy in mind, body, and spirit, that we can trust will lovingly and earnestly engage with our children appropriately?  Will they study the nature of our child and be willing to engage with them for “Who they are”?  Will they say and do things for them that will build their self-esteem and anchor them in loving and respecting themselves?

Will they make the time and spend the energy to “think before they speak” so that they say things that are context and content appropriate?  Will they be willing to share their knowledge, wisdom, and the legacy of your family that will ground them in pride, self-confidence, and respecting the value and legacy of your family?  Will they be truthful and respectful, and be adult enough in their own identity, that they realize that they must make sure that what they share with your child, has been sanctioned by you, as their parents.

 

Survey your family, and without bias and judgment but with wisdom and forethought decide who you feel safe engaging with your child!  Sometimes it is a very simple, statement, that someone can say to your child that is not being said with malice or thoughts of hurting them, but once said, it enters the psyche of a child, and believe me when I tell you it never leaves!  Somehow and at some time it will surface and color some essence of their life memory bank.  It is amazing how little things done and said in childhood can weave into some aspect of who we see ourselves or others as. Wow!  Parenthood is no joke, but “Great Spirit” is always there to support us if we but tune into the vibration!

Stay in Touch: http://heart4kidsadvocacy.org/

Categories
A Communal Transformative Hub-Tiny Tips For Moms and Dads Children and Family Advocates Early Childhood Education educators Embracing the Gift of Parenthood Heart 4 kids Advocacy Organization Parenting Tips Uncategorized

A Communal Transformative Parenting Hub- “Tiny Tips 4 Moms and Dads!

A Communal Transformative Parenting Hub-   

  “Tiny Tips for Moms and Dads”

 

Welcome to Our Parenting Hub!  Here we are creating a sacred space where I hope to share “Tiny Tips for Moms and Dads” that will make “Parenting” a journey that is both transformative and supportive as you embark on the “Journey through Parenthood”!  I hope that what is shared will be eye opening and uplifting and will give you a sense of peace and balance as a parent in “residence” with the gift of your child-children.

Parenting is basically a trial and error expereince as both the child and the parent navigate their relationship in a world that is evolving so rapidly, that we are living in a state of very little grounding.  While parenthood is challenging, it is the most amazing expereince that brings you the most gratification as you witness your growth and development and the growth and develpment of your child.

As a parent, I must embrace the gift of parenthood and the responsibilities of this role in my child’s life.  It is a life long journey in which there will be opportunities for me to build a loving and respectful relationship with my child.  Everyday is a day which presents new challenges and new growth.  I invite you to share in my experiences as a parent and as an educator of young children.

The Poem- ” I Realize”, that is the foundation of my philosophy of Parenting-

I realize I’ve been given the gift to be your parent and as your parent I realize this is a life time commitment.

I realize this means I have the responsibility to be your lifetime earthly ‘Spirit Guide”.

I realize you are a gift given to me great intention and you and I are connected by design.

I realize you are expecting me to take my responsibility seriously and understand I cannot be your friend and “Spirit Guide” at the same time.

I realize you are expecting me to love you, guide you, support you, and discipline you, with consistency and continuity.

I realize I must follow through with what I proclaim to be truth, justice, integrity and genuine love for you, so you will ultimately develop your own sense a conscious and values.

I realize I must be very intentional in spending time with you, praying with you, playing with you, laughing with you, crying with you, listening to you, and problem solving with you.

I realize I have a responsibility to provide for you- to make sure you have all the resources and experiences you need to be a whole, healthy, happy and confident human being.

I realize you are not me and I am not you and as your “Spirit Guide” I have a responsibility to observe you and discover who you are and what “Great Spirit” has ordained you to contribute to society so I can support you on your journey to “Greatness”.

I realize you came here knowing who you are and what you must do and if I honor and respect you and if I demand that others do the same, you will blossom into your full expression of beauty and this world will be a better place because of you.

I realize I have a responsibility to be all I can be so you will know I expect you to do the same.

I realize our love for each other will last beyond this life time and the next and what we build with each other today will last forever.

I realize you are my gift and I am yours.

Elizabeth M. Evans

June 2006

I invite you to read my book- “Embracing the Gift of Parenthood- How to Create a Loving Relationship With Your Children”. Available: Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Stay in Touch:

On our blog:

http://Heart4kidsadvocacyforum.wordpress.com

Website:

https://www.heart4kidsadvocacy.org