Parenting reflections Archives ~ Page 12 of 18 ~ Happy Whimsical Hearts

Roughhouse play

It took me quite awhile to be ok with roughhouse play. And you know, it was initially more that I was worried about other parents’ expectations about the play and how we responded to it than the play itself. Although I did harbour some concerns about the kids getting hurt. But I also noticed it was hard for the kids to come back down from their roughhouse high.

I tried encouraging my son to play differently for a little while. We have no toy guns or weapons in our home (we do have a water pistol but that’s a bit different right?). But it’s funny how easily a clothes hanger and elastic band can become a bow, or a stick can become a sword…

Then I started reading articles and books about why children need roughhouse play, and why playing with toy guns can be okay. Our kindy teacher also talked to me about how important roughhouse play is and how they managed it in the playground.

I’ve learnt that this kind of play has many benefits ~ it helps kids learn their limits, builds emotional resilience and empathy, and it allows dad’s to connect with their kids in a way that might feel more comfortable.

So I got comfortable with the idea and more able to defend it.

Now we have rules to minimise risk (no sticks near faces for example), and we encourage the kids to help their friends if someone does accidentally get hurt. Story telling can also be used to encourage safe rough play.

And you know what, my husband loves a bit of roughhouse play ~ and nothing is more fun than roughhousing with your dad!

How do you feel about roughhouse play?

Warmly, Kelly

September 29, 2014 by Kelly

A Waldorf book list…

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I seem to take an immersion approach to new things that interest me. I read articles, critiques, blogs and of course as many books as I can get my hands on

And this has been the way of it with Waldorf too.

There are so many lovely and inspiring books about Waldorf. Ones about parenting, child development, Waldorf teaching and Waldorf crafts.

{Mmmm, the craft books… I will have to write a whole post devoted to those…}

But for now, here are my 5 favourite Waldorf books

#1 Beyond the Rainbow Bridge

By Barbara J. Patterson and Pamela Bradley

A wonderful starting place for learning about Waldorf. This book explains the gentle parenting approach that Waldorf inspires, by using rhythm, simple toys, less haste and respectful discipline.

Patterson also includes questions from the parent-child classes (playgroups) she has ran, with helpful suggestions for parents to try.

#2 You Are Your Child’s First Teacher

By Rahima Baldwin Dancy
For a deeper exploration of Waldorf and how it may be placed within our culture as a way to parent, Rahima Dancy provides a thoughtful and helpful resource.

You Are Your Child’s First Teacher includes useful discussion about academic vs play based learning, school readiness, and parenting challenges like returning to work.

#3 School as a Journey
By Torin M. Finser

This book brings us the story of Waldorf teacher, Torin M. Finser and the journey he took with his class. It is an inspiring story showing the dedication, creativity and warmth of Waldorf teachers.

As a parent considering Waldorf education, this book gave me a great deal of comfort. Finser also illustrated the wonderful relationship between teacher, student, family and school community.

#4 Heaven on Earth
By Sharifa Oppenheimer

For a handbook of Waldorf inspired ideas to incorporating into your home, Heaven on Earth is a valuable resource. From how to develop a rhythm that works for your family to how to celebrate festivals as a family.

This is a beautiful book that I like to return to for inspiration often.

#5 Simplicity Parenting
By Kim John Payne
Although not marketed as a ‘Waldorf’ book, Simplicity Parenting shares many of the same ideas about parenting and healthy, happy children (and is recommended reading for many new parents to Waldorf schools).