I is for feeling IMPORTANT….

The Feelings Storybook shows an image of Ingrid who is feeling important as she’s working with her Daddy in the garden. During this is the time of year many parents work in their yard preparing it for summer family fun. I support you in inviting your child to share this type of time with you. What better way to bond than through nature?

When our granddaughter Alissa visits us, she loves to go with Papa Gino to his garden and pick fresh green beans, lettuce and tomatoes, but especially the raspberries.  She’s so pleased to bring in the harvest and then get out the stepstool and bring it to the kitchen sink as we “snap” the beans for dinner.  (The beans have to “snap” or else they’re not fresh.)

Nature is a fabulous teacher. As the three of us pick the berries, I’ve shown her that each one in a little bunch is a bit different.  One is very ripe, another over ripe, and still others are in their own unique stage of readiness.  We each have our own timing to unfold our beauty and that is why it’s so unfair to judge another for their unique process.

Julianna, our 9-month old granddaughter is crawling all over the house, while Ashlyn, her twin sister sits and observes. It’s incredible to watch how these girls grow according to their own innate development. 

We are U for unique and once again, as you refrain from comparison and judgment, you provide the best environment for growing a happy and healthy adult. Notice what is unique about each child in your classroom and draw that out through activities and acknowledgement. You’ll soon be recognized as the teacher of the year. Observe your child and offer her/him the supportive tools in which to nurture their unique talents. One day they will thank you for your caring.

After obvious interest in his grandmother’s guitar, John Denver was told he could have it if he took lessons.  Of course he did! Let’s all look at the gift he has given the world through his music. Pay attention and be aware then take action.

Happy Spring.