Creating a Rhythmic Home Life for Children
I am often asked by parents how they can create a rhythmic space that their children can thrive in during the busyness of their every daily lives. The young child needs to know that there is structure and security. Creating a rhythmic, harmonious household will provide balance and relieve stress for not only your child(ren) but your family as a whole.
In order to create this calm, rhythmic space within your household, first create the picture of what you want your day to look like. It doesn’t mean that this ideal will happen every time, but when it does, remember what it feels like. For example, during dinner maybe you would like for your child(ren) to share their favorite part of their day or to sit through the entirety of dinner. Create your ideal and work towards it daily.
Using the same songs and reminders can be helpful when trying to create your rhythm. The child then knows what’s expected, because that’s how it always is. Simple reminders like “we sit at the table when we eat” or “we’re all sitting at the table for dinner” are helpful. If you’re consistent and true to your word, eventually your child will begin to understand and follow the rhythm. As a mom myself, my 14-month-old son is not able to sit through my puppet shows or stories in class, yet. However, I still set out a chair for him and ask that he sits, creating an ideal. Although he is only able to sit for a short time in the chair, as he grows, he will eventually be able to sit through the entire puppet show, fulfilling the ideal.
Parents often tell me that dinner preparation is one of the most difficult times of the day, and this is usually when they resort to screen time. Careful planning can be beneficial during these more stressful times. Include your children in the process by having things prepared for them to do. Have a bowl of potatoes or your child’s favorite veggies cut into matchstick pieces and ready to cut. They can then dice them into small cubes using a children’s knife and put them in a bowl. These tasks build their confidence and give them a sense of achievement. Children remember these moments and always love participating in family activities. Doing tasks along with their parents strengthens the child’s will force as they are able to see and do what their parents do.
Children are much more capable than we think. Give them time and space to grow and do. Remember that we are there to gently guide them and show them the way, and repetition makes this easier. I invite you to think of simple ideals or rhythms you wish to bring to your family’s home life. Begin by adding one item a week and stick with it. Always be gentle on yourself; creating these wonderful spaces takes time.
Chandra Johnson is a preschool teacher at Little Chestnuts Preschool in North Tacoma. After years of working in a private school, she and a long-time friend decided to start their own Waldorf-inspired preschool program. Visit LittleChestnuts.com for more information.
