Once upon a time, I have been a first-time parent, too. Most parents would agree that the experience of being a parent is rewarding, but it also has its less than stellar moments. While I could definitely smile now when I recall the days when both my children were still young, it was not easy. There were days when I could just pull my hair in frustration as I juggle between running the household and a screaming three-year old who wanted to find out where her favorite Teddy is. Any parent who has been in this situation knows this is not a laughing matter – at least not while you’re going through it. Fortunately, I survived those years. My children have finally reached the point when they no longer hide each other’s favorite items. I must admit though that there are days when I wish they are still young kids again, but it’s not going to happen. However, having survived those years, I felt the need to somehow impart some advice to young parents out there who are still going through this phase. In this article, I will share some tips or activities that you as a parent can do with your tots to strengthen your bond and help you survive the incoming days, weeks, months and years of your child’s life.
- Art Projects – Most, if not all, children love colors. Why wouldn’t they? At that age, they still see the world differently with all its vibrant color schemes. Have fun with your child by creating an art project of your own. While they cannot manage more difficult projects, you can start by completing simple projects. Of course, you have to make sure that all materials used are non-toxic and can be washed off. For starters, start with finger-painting projects. After the artwork has been completed, you can have it framed and hung on the wall to decorate your child’s room in the years to come.
- Gardening – Do you have a preschooler in your hands that is bursting with so much energy it can power your household for one day? Why not direct all that to gardening instead? I should say that this activity must be done with a lot of supervision, but when done properly, it will have a lot of positive effects in your child. For one thing, they will learn the process of how a plant grows from just a tiny seed to a flower or a tree. For another, this will teach them patience as it takes a lot of attention and love to grow a plant – much like raising a child. You would also need to start small, like a planter’s box. If your children’s interest is piqued by gardening, this can be something they will continue to do as they get older.
- In-house playtime – While this is not the most original idea, no one can deny that this is a great bonding experience for parents and their children. I would suggest channeling your inner child and playing with your kids. Try choosing games wherein they can practice their independence, such as building blocks. Supervise, but don’t interfere unless it’s needed. Remember: you’re trying to teach them independence. If you have an older child, chances are the younger one has received too much help from his/her sibling and does not get to practice his/her independence alone. Games such as the one I mentioned are both age-appropriate and ideal for your purpose, so they will learn and have fun at the same time.
Raising a child can sometimes be nerve-wrecking, but I have found out that it all flies by so fast. Enjoy it while you can; there will be much room for your own private moments when they grow older. Trust me, when your kids are all grown up, you will miss the sticky hands patting your cheek, the impromptu tea parties will other stuffed animals and those lovely wet kisses your tiny tots reward you with at the end of the day. So while they’re still running around the house screaming for their Teddy, take a deep breath, smile, stop what you’re doing, give me a hug and have fun with them.
