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“When given quiet, stay quiet.” This may be a ballpoint pen tattoo on my wrist this week. Helps me remember that 1} so much of this is a gift, and that 2} I can be intentional in using the gift well. Thanks.
Washi tape is a favorite at home – and a great thing to bring along on our next trip! I have also loved modeling clay and window clings. A pretend microphone or paper plate steering wheel have provided entertainment. A dear friend who is a military mama (and often driving long distances to new homes or faraway family members) wraps old toys or small games so that her kids can unwrap interactive “gifts” periodically as they make long drives.
I would also like to begin keeping a list of highlights the child will remember through the year, and on his birthday, filling his room or covering the dining room wall with small notes or pictures or doodles that show events from the previous year. A picture/memory/scrap book as a birthday gift would do the same thing, but I can’t throw that together the night before as easily. :)
I’ve seen pretty, foraged greens and flowers hung from walls and ceilings for celebrations like this – however, some may need to be taken down before they wilt and look spooky!
We had to take the busy box idea out of the box and set up small stations that my 4 year old could “discover” and engage in independently while I was on phone calls for work from home. My prep, instruction, and encouragement helped, but wasn’t entirely perfect. He still had times where, although it appeared he wanted attention, he was actually seeking relationship. We did our best, and will continue to discuss for the next times I will need this kind of system.
Loved seeing the range of suggestions in this short post – I’ve frequently debated Instagram and other social media use, as it often feels like a satisfying break, but slowly creeps until I’ve given social media most of my down time. Regular practice of discipline in other areas helps, and some “all or nothing” breaks help too. Will be following further here to hear new ideas!
I would love to hear more about the “show me the hard part” that Becky Gean referenced above – where can I find that?
Thanks!
I want to save each of these recommendations – thanks all! Lately, I’m listening to Abiding Together, Unspoken, Everything Happens with Kate Bowler, The Place We Find Ourselves, Fr. Mike Schmitz on the UMD Newman podcast, a little bit of Goal Digger with Jenna Kutcher, and anything with Brene Brown.
