The more I work with children, the more I realize that adults need what children need.
The kids that I work with have a good time when:
- Their bodily needs for rest, food, water, and regular bathroom breaks are met,
- They know what to expect,
- They have time to adjust,
- They get to make their own choices, and
- They can try new things without fear of failure
The kids I work with have a bad time when:
- Expectations don’t match reality,
- They are held to rules or standards that no one told them about,
- There is no way to convey fear, anger, or sadness without getting into trouble,
- They can’t take care of their bodies by taking a break, resting, eating, or using the bathroom,
- They don’t have choices, or
- Their thoughts or ideas aren’t listened to
Looking at these lists, I truly want to know: how are adults any different?
Do you enjoy going to an event with no idea of what to expect?
If I don’t know…
- What to wear,
- Who else will be going,
- If there are accessible water fountains and bathrooms, and
- If I can leave when I want,
…Then I am going to feel very nervous about going and I might not go at all.
GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO FIND ANSWERS TO THINGS THAT MAKE YOU NERVOUS
Do you expect a child who hasn’t slept well or had anything to eat to be their best self?
Most of us who have experience with children know that they need naps and snacks to even have a chance at performing well. Without rest and snacks, there is little chance of a successful day.
give YourselF the same care and permission
Today, pick one way that you can treat yourself like a child.
You need it and deserve it.
Did you treat yourself like a child today? How did it go? Write it in a comment below!
