We love going to our Waldorf Playgroup.
We have a great Playgroup leader who nicely sets the tone for the group.
The setting is beautiful with many lovely opened ended natural toys, gentle light and seasonal touches.
A rhythm takes us through the morning…
With moments of breathing in together ~ such as morning tea and songs…
And breathing out ~ like outside play.
Like for all groups, families leave and families join.
And I’ve noticed that with each new family, especially those with energetic boys…
…Dino Boy needs to test the boundaries and find his place again
{amidst great excitement}
…Dino Boy needs to test the boundaries and find his place again
{amidst great excitement}
This can create challenging moments where little bodies and minds are not easily redirected…
And little boys seem to feed off each others energy ~ steadily mounting!
During these times of change I always find myself reflecting on my parenting style…
I’ve come to realise that I have much less of a ‘traditional parenting style’ then some…
…but not as far along the {so called} ‘positive parenting approach’ as others.
Sometimes I wish I could just restrain the behaviours I dislike by holding on and cuddling…
but this is because of my needs… not my little ones.
So I try to redirect and suggest different engaging play…
where a broom was looking like a weapon I suggest we sweep the dust in the corner…
Our Playgroup Leader also helps direct the energies…
…suggesting that the imaginary gun {oh how I dislike gun play} needs cleaning…
Passing over a piece of fabric so that the task can be undertaken as a serious endeavour.
And when the energy levels rise too rapidly taking a moment outside to sit and reset.
Letting the fresh air flow around us… steadying ourselves.
Outside play is always a great release…
Little legs and arms busily working on digging holes, running and jumping.
So perhaps next week I will aim to rise earlier to enjoy breakfast outside followed by some outside play before joining the group….
How do you redirect or manage the energy of little ones?
Warmly,
Kelly
