At our parent meeting last month we talked about some Reflective Parenting principles including the Thinking/Feeling/Doing exercise where we looked at how to step back from intense interactions with our children and reflect rather than react. The homework we had was to simply watch our child at play in a one-on-one situation for 15-30 minutes and observe their behavior without taking the lead, but joining in at our child's direction. I am wondering how that is going for those of you who had a chance to do it?
What did you discover about your child and yourself? Anything interesting?
Some parents have told me that this simple exercise has changed the way they see their child and created a more relaxed interaction when they were able to step out of the the leader/teacher role and let their little one " take charge". It can be a delightful experience on both ends. Our children often do not get to lead their play time with us as we are usually trying to teach or influence in some way in order to support them and help them grow. But they also have minds of their own and it can be fascinating to discover what is going on when we step back a foot or two and let them be our "teacher".
I joined Johnny in a picnic on Monday afternoon. It was the most enjoyable, peaceful 20 minutes I've had in a long time. We sat and talked, I wasn't pulled in by my phone or dishes that need washing or laundry... I just watched him and listened to him.
ReplyDeleteNice, Tami! I am thinking that he probably enjoyed this as much as you...
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