Raising kids is hard. It takes a lot of effort and I’ve learned over the years to reach out to others for their input and guidance as well. Just this week I’ve had many instances when I’ve called on others to reinforce my thoughts, provide another viewpoint, and see if they can get through to my children when I seem to be hitting a road block or struggling.
For instance, Delaney, at two my youngest and probably most stubborn child, is having a power struggle with us about using the potty at home. You see, she will use it at school and when she goes to Daddy’s work, yet at home she “doesn’t like the potty”. Over the past few months I have tried all sorts of influencers on her: her siblings, bribery, her aunts, and her grandparents. I think my parents were not going to leave last night until DD sat on the potty, but nope, it didn’t happen. (Tonight she did sit for me; a little progress, I think. Baby steps. The Swedish fish probably had something to do with it though.)
My nine-year old son, Gavin, who we lovingly refer to as “Good Time Gavin”, has been having too good of a time in school this year. He wants to be good, and he means well, but he also enjoys being “hilarious” in class. (If you have a fourth grade boy, you probably know what I mean.) His wonderful teacher and I have been in constant communication to stay on top of him and make sure he knows that we are all on the same page. We also really love his lacrosse coach this year because he demands respect, hard work and teamwork, and there are consequences if expectations are not met. (Yes!) He also told the boys that there are three things that matter in the game: leadership, hustle and toughness.
Last night my Dad was chatting with Gavin and shared with Gavin that he really believes that leadership is most important. It’s funny that my Dad said that because we constantly tell Gavin that we and his teachers want him to be a leader and show the others the right way to act in class. It all ties together, and it really requires everyone’s help to get the message across. As the saying goes, “It takes a village”.
And if you have read my blog before, you know I’ve written about my daughter Ellie and how it takes way more than a village. We take our help from all corners of the earth (and heaven, too)!
Anyone else agree that it indeed takes a village? What’s your story?Sharing is caring!
