I was struck recently by this quote in an article written by Simplicity Parenting author, Kim John Payne: "Ultimately, it comes down to a choice. Parents need to decide whether they believe childhood is a fast-paced enrichment opportunity or a slowly unfolding experience."
We choose the slow and simple. And yet, a slow and simple childhood in today's increasingly fast and complex world is a choice that needs constant vigilance. So many fascinating activities and exciting children's programming here in the city could easily sweep us off our feet and consume the precious time my children have to just be--to imagine and create and grow--slowly and steadily.
On summer-like days here in March, unexpected and entirely welcomed, I am reminded more prominently of the gift of allowing childhood to be a "slowly unfolding experience." Spending nearly all of our daylight hours outside, drinking in the sunshine and warmth, I can almost see childhood unfolding naturally, peacefully. I can see siblings collaborating on important backyard projects. I can hear whispers of fairies and magic and all that's possible. I can watch trees get climbed, feet get muddy, sticks get transformed, dreams get planted.
I observe this quiet unfolding of childhood, just as the crocuses and daffodils quietly unfold around us, and marvel at its simple, uninterrupted beauty. In truth, it's really only been in the last few years that I have truly seen spring unfold: deeply and intentionally noticed the first buds, the first burst of color. It was in these last few years that my children introduced to me a slower, more deliberate pace--a pace necessary to spot each new bud and petal. My children are completely enchanted by spring's new discoveries and force a stiller, steadier, more observant rhythm to appreciate all that emerges around us.
I learn from them. I learn to go slower, to notice more, to appreciate more, and to protect the extraordinary unfolding of childhood.
What a lovely piece. You're right, a slow childhood takes constant vigilance. Your children are lucky to have such a mother. Thanks for encouraging the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteArianne, thanks so much for visiting my blog and for your sweet comment. I am a big fan of your blog and am delighted you stopped by here!
ReplyDeleteThe thing that is ironic about slowing down into the less structured homeschooling is that kids can work at their own pace and work ahead if they want. Less hurry up stress has led to more working ahead. I wrote about this a couple months ago regarding math.
ReplyDeletehttp://homeschoolinginbuffalo.blogspot.com/2012/01/getting-ahead-in-math-by-taking-your.html
Liz, this is so true. Slowing down helps to clarify interests and skills. Great points!
DeleteI loved his book Simplicity Parenting. We are unschoolers in Colorado and I am so glad we are following this path so our kids can take their time while they are young to figure out who they are and what they love. So much we can learn from them if we only slow down ourselves.
ReplyDeleteLaura
www.sewknitgrow.com
Thanks for visiting and commenting, Laura, and for linking to your lovely blog!
DeleteKerry - great post. I had a picnic in our yard today with the kiddos (a rare occurrence) and Andrew insisted we lay on our backs and look at the sky. I was fussing with my 18 month old, etc. and finally obliged. I saw the first few red buds of our front yard tree - something I never would have seen had he not "slowed me down." It's ironic how much our children teach us at times...
ReplyDeleteEnjoy these beautiful days - it's the best time of year in the city!
Jill, thanks so much for your comment. We have been really enjoying our outside picnics in this week's heat and, like you, I am trying to go slower to notice spring's unfolding alongside my children.
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