Confessions, Apologies and Reminders

As an avid blog reader, I am quite often amazed by what other tots and preschoolers are capable of at very young ages. I'm also humbled by the many things that other parents and caregivers are able to accomplish with their little ones. Sometimes, these things even make me question my own abilities as a mother and teacher to my own little guy. On occasion, I even get emails and comments from others who seem to feel the same way.

I am not perfect (by any stretch). I get frustrated by our lack of funds, our lack of space, Robbie's lack of interest in things that I've poured my heart into, and sometimes what seems like a lack of organization (on my part) or progress (on his). I lose my temper. I have bad days. I get too tired to play or read that book "just one more time". I get down on myself for not following through when I should have. I mess up... a lot.

When these things happen, the first thing that I have to do is to forgive myself. I also apologize to Robbie when I should. I will never be perfect. I have to accept that sometimes "good enough" will have to do. I have to remind myself that all children have their own strengths, weaknesses and developmental timetable.

The biggest reminder I have to give myself is that my child is on a journey, not in a race or a competition... and neither am I.

The time that so many of us spend with our children is far more important than measuring milestones or comparing one to another. This time together will serve them far better than anything else.

It's not about what my child happens to be DOING. It's about what's happening WITH my child.