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Motherhood is a call from God.
Motherhood is about being a partner with God.
Motherhood is Divine.
Now, having said this, do you feel this way about Motherhood when you think of it? I know often for me, it’s hard to feel this sacred calling is meaningful when you are changing diapers all day, have spit up all over your shirt, have been wearing the same pj’s for days, doing endless laundry and avalanches of dishes, cleaning up messes, making meals, running errands, dealing with tantrums, breaking up little fights, working through screaming and crying, negotiating with toddlers and the list goes on.
Motherhood is hard work.
Motherhood is not so pretty at times (sometimes even gross).
Motherhood is exhausting.
We all used to be such glamor girls, but we traded that for diaper bags, tired eyes, and plain jeans and a t-shirt. Right?
In the mist of all the chaos as mothers that we face, we can stand back and see what a “beautiful mess” we have created with God’s help and keeping the right perspective. Being a mom is one of the most challenging yet amazing jobs we could ask for. It is a job that no matter how good our intentions, or how hard we try, we can’t do on our own. We will get tired. We will get frustrated. We will mess up (A LOT). We need the help of our Heavenly Father. And we need it everyday. We must be humble enough to ask for God’s help, after all, he is the one who sent us and entrusted these special spirits to love and nurture. There is nothing like a child to cause you to fall on your knees at the feet of our Heavenly Father pleading for help. We need him as much as he needs us. Pray for his guidance.
I’ll admit its hard to know that we are doing the Lord’s work when it comes to motherhood because we are blinded by all the “things we have to do.” And I don’t know about you, but I feel so busy all the time but I look around and say, “What did I do all day?” On my no good very bad days I often ask, “is this really how it was meant to be?” We question our sanctity, our duty, and our roles as mothers – “did we really sign up for this?”
However we may feel at times, we must remember we are participating the greatest of God’s work and we are in a position of such power and influence. We have a huge responsibility of molding our children to be productive citizens of society. Motherhood surprises us with a great opportunity for personal and spiritual growth and in return we grow closer to our Heavenly Father because of this. If we would but listen to the still small voice, we would gain a greater understanding of our purpose as mothers in the grand scheme of things.
Why does Christ love us so much? Think about it, because he sacrificed so much for us in our behalf. Same goes with us as Mothers, we love our children so much because we sacrifice every single day for them. We would even pay the ultimate sacrifice for them, wouldn’t we? That is how strong our love is. We are endowed with a love that is unlike any other on the face of this earth because of what God has entrusted us with.
Believe it Mommies! Believe that this is what your supposed to be doing. Believe that God did not leave you here alone to do it all yourself. Trust him. Believe that what you are doing is a very divine calling. Our example influences far beyond our comprehension. Embrace it and all it has to offer.
Motherhood.
Do you believe Motherhood is a divine calling? How do you embrace your Motherhood mess?
Kerri is a Chiropractic wife, Gospel lover, Natural living Mom to 3 boys (so far), an Attached Positive Parent, Organic and Fit Foodie, Real food chef, Group Fitness Instructor (zumba and bodyflow), and a wellness and fitness enthusiast. She embraces and loves anything that is Christ centered, holistic and loves the outdoors. She is a blogger and writer over at Whole Journey Mama.
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Guest Post by Sara of Your Thriving Family
We have dealt with a lot eczema with my oldest daughter. To keep it in check, and to help all the cuts and scrapes little kids get I turned to some more natural ways to do bath time. I have bought most every commercial eczema solution available. And after six years of this, I now use good old epsom salt, castille soap and a few essential oils.
I recently started buying our salts at the feed store, it is the cheapest I have found and it is safe to feed to animals, looks the same as the small bags at the store as well. I use the baby mild unscented Dr. Bronner’s soap. Just a small squirt in the tub will do ya!
To that I add 3 drops each of lavender oil and melaleuca oil. Occasionally I will add a few drops of jojoba, almond or rose hip oil as well – depending on how inflamed the children’s skin is. If it is really bad, I rub some coconut oil into the problem areas before getting them into the bathtub.
A note on the essential oils to use . . . since this is being used topically be sure to use a quality oil. The cheaper, often less pure, oils can burn skin which defeats putting them in the bath in the first place. Personally I have chosen to use this brand for anything I am putting on or in our bodies. The others I use for cleaning and for bug spray.
Then, I let them play and soak away! The longer they play, the better for their skin! And the more I get done 
I have also eliminated any bath toys that retain water. Ones that cannot totally dry out can house many kinds of bacteria and irritate skin, or even make your little ones sick if they decide it is fun to squirt it in their mouths!
We use homemade soap now, as well and what I lovingly call Owie Balm after our bath, along with normal lotion. Our next step is to start making our own shampoo.
This routine doesn’t heal the eczema but it keeps it under control. There are always underlying reasons for irritations. It may be something as simple as the commercial products you are using, whether it be soap, lotion or laundry detergent. If you have eliminated all these it may be dietary.
For my daughter we found the solution to be our laundry detergent. We’ve been using a eco-friendly brand for more than 4 years and things have completely cleared up. Though she is still sensitive to lots of things, as is our youngest, it is best to get on top of those as soon as you see them!
What sorts of things do you add to your bath water?
Sara is a mama to three precious gifts and wife to a man who lovingly calls her “his nutter.” She started pushing her family into real food a few months after she started blogging. They will forever be on the road to real food and natural health.
Balancing art and logic in her daily life and work, God’s balance of creation and healing is quite clear to her. She loves creating, experimenting, and learning. Whether it be food, health or crafting. She is navigating her family through healthy frugality – trying to THRIVE, not merely survive this life. She shares this journey at Your Thriving Family. You can also connect with her on Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook.
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Guest Post by Ashley of Live Essentially
Since Rachel just had her third bundle of joy a couple weeks ago, let’s talk babies and co-sleeping!
Co-sleeping is far from the norm in modern day parenting here in the United States. In fact it is frowned upon by those who don’t fully understand what it is and how to practice co-sleeping safely. So let’s get a good understanding of what co-sleeping is, how to practice it safely, and the many benefits of co-sleeping with your child.
What is co-sleeping?
Co-sleeping is the practice of a baby or child sleeping in the same bed or near the mother and father. Some people chose to use “co-sleepers” such as this one that go next to the bed as opposed to having the child sleep in the bed with them.
Is it Safe?
As long as co-sleeping is practiced safely, it is safe and beneficial for both you and baby. Follow these simple safety tips to practice safe co-sleeping.
- Never sleep with your baby when you are under the influence of alcohol prescription medication which causes drowsiness
- Take precaution to not let your baby roll off of the bed
- Do not sleep on soft surfaces such as a waterbed
- Put baby to sleep on their back
- Keep clothing and blankets to a minimum, do not overheat baby
- If you feel overly exhausted or do not wake easily, consider using a co-sleeper on the side of the bed as opposed to have baby in bed with you
What are the benefits?
- Building a Bond- Most bonds between mother and child come naturally, but co-sleeping enhances that bond, but offering comfort and cuddles to the baby and allowing mom to meet their needs quickly throughout the night.
- Makes Breastfeeding Easier- If you are a nursing mom, you can appreciate the convenience of having a baby right next to you and ready to eat, as opposed to getting out up and out of bed.
- Reduces the Risk of SIDS- That’s right! Most people think that co-sleeping increases the risk of SIDS, but in fact it is the opposite way around. Read more on “Why Babies Should Never Sleep Alone.”
- Eliminates the Cry it Out Method- The cry it out method is pretty common for most household, but there is a lot of debate about it and how it affects the child short and long term. When you co-sleep with your baby you are automatically eliminating the cry it out method or any of the negative effects that it may have.
- More Sleep for You- A baby who is co-sleeping with mom tend to startle less than those sleeping in a crib, meaning less times for you to wake up and comfort a startled baby in the middle of the night.
- Gives child a sense of security- Sleeping close to mom and dad gives baby a strong sense of security. They are comforted by your closeness and touch. Continuous co-sleeping throughout a child’s early years will create a sense of independence and certainty from the accumulated securities of their co-sleeping days.
- More time with baby- If you are a working mom and get to spend only a few hours before bed time with your baby, this is a great way to squeeze in some more time with your little one, even if their eyes are closed.
These are just a few of the many more benefits that both a parent and child experience from co-sleeping.
For more information and further readings check out:
- Scientific Benefits of Co-sleeping by Dr. Sears
- Why Babies Should Never Sleep Alone by James McKenna
- Co-sleeping Safety by PhD in Parenting
Do you co-sleep with your children?
Ashlee is the owner/blogger of LiveEssentially.com. She is a wife, mother, massage therapist, and blogger. She is passionate about all things green and crunchy and writes to inspire others to live a natural happier and healthier life. Check her out on Facebook!
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Guest Post by Angela of Grassfed Mama
Pregnancy is such a wonderful time, but it can also bring a lot of unpleasant side effects and symptoms along with it. Here are 10 Tips for a great pregnancy using natural ingredients. It is important to use natural ingredients when you are pregnancy so you won’t expose your developing baby to toxins and anything that could harm them.
10 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy
1. Magnesium
Magnesium is a vital mineral for your body (pregnant or not). It is important for blood sugar metabolism, handling stress, helping you sleep, preventing morning sickness, and controlling blood pressure.
Wellness Mama shares how she managed her morning sickness with magnesium supplementation.
Many people are deficient in magnesium. Pregnancy hormones make it even harder to absorb and use the magnesium you are eating. Here are my simple ways for increasing magnesium intake. When I was pregnant, I used a magnesium lotion, oil, and epsom salt baths along with oral supplements to increase my magnesium.
2. Cut out the Sugar in your Diet
Pregnancy is full of cravings and a lot of women struggle with sugar cravings in pregnancy because their body wants energy. When you are struggling with a lot of sugar cravings, instead of reaching for candy make sure you are fueling your body with your baby in mind. Excessive sugar intake will not be easy on your pancreas which is stressed from pregnancy anyways.
Many pregnant women develop insulin resistance because of pregnancy hormones making it harder for blood sugar to enter the cells. I used stevia when I was pregnant and wanted sweet foods. Stevia is a natural sweetener that does not affect blood sugar. Here are my other tips for cutting out the sugar in your diet.
If you do develop gestational diabetes, here is how I controlled my gestational diabetes naturally.
3. Keep Moving
Stay as active as you can during your pregnancy. If you were active before pregnancy, there is no need to stop. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself beyond your limits. If you are starting a new exercise routine, always consult your doctor. Staying active will keep you strong, get your body ready to carry a baby, and be ready for labor. I have had 2 short labors (4.5 hours and 2.5 hours) and I believe that staying active was one reason my body was able to push effectively.
Some great exercises for pregnant women include: walking, using an elliptical machine, stationary bike, playing with your older kids, yoga, light cardio classes, body weight exercises and light weight lifting.
Right now, I just prefer dancing with my 3 year old to some music. Find something that you enjoy and that isn’t a chore.
4. Eat Your Protein
Protein is so important for building and growing a baby. The Bradly Natural Childbirth Method recommends getting in 80-100 grams of protein each day.
I find that when I am eating lower carb, it is fairly easy for me to reach this level of protein. Eating protein at each meal and snack will also help you keep your blood sugar levels stable and help with any nausea related to low blood sugar.
Foods high in protein:
Meats like Chicken, Beef, Turkey, Greek Yogurt, Cheese, Nuts, Gelatin, Eggs, Almond Butter (and other nut butters)
5. Get Adjusted
Find a chiropractor in your area that specializes in chiropractic adjustments in pregnancy.
I was able to be adjusted at the end of my pregnancy and it really helped me have a smooth labor. Spinning Babies is a website dedicated to proper alignment in pregnancy for your pelvis. They include exercises for you to complete throughout your pregnancy. Doing these exercises plus getting adjusted can shorten labor and help you have a safe and natural delivery (plus will keep you more comfortable).
6. Drink Your Pregnancy Tea
Pregnancy tea is specially formulated to have the vitamins and minerals needed for your body during pregnancy. These vitamins and minerals will help tone your uterus making labor easier, keep you hydrated, and nourish your body. This is the tea I used in my pregnancy from Blessed Beginnings(not an affiliate link, just a happy customer). I drank one gallon a week in my third trimester.
7. Use a Belly Cream
To prevent stretch marks and itchy growing skin, it is important to keep your skin hydrated. Do this by drinking water and your pregnancy tea. For another line of defense, I used Hosie Naturals belly butter (not an affiliate) I had very itchy skin during the drier winter months, and this really really helped.
8. Grab a Pillow (or 4)
I don’t have a certain pregnancy pillow that I used or recommend, but I do recommend using extra pillows to support you during the night. I used 4. Sleeping on my side, one for my head, one behind my back, one for my belly, and one between my knees. Having all this support really helped me get comfortable when I was growing very, very large.
9. Use a Belly Support Band
I didn’t use a belly support band with Aidalyn (my first baby). If I had, I may not have developed diastasis recti quite as badly. With Annaleigh, my midwife loaned me one to use to help me hold her in my uterus in proper positioning. My baby kept falling forward, because my abs were already separated and weak from my first pregnancy.
Using a support band will help remind you to hold those abs in and prevent diastais recti from forming. Read more on how to heal diastasis recti.
10. Choose Your Support Team Wisely
I had two amazing pregnancies because I had a wonderful team both times. I chose to have homebirths for each of my labors (You can read my birth stories HERE and HERE).
I used two different midwifes for each of my labors, because I moved between pregnancies. I used these strategies for choosing my midwives. By hiring someone who you can trust and confide in, you will have the best experience. You want someone who understands your desires for your pregnancy and also your labor. This isn’t the time you want to have to fight for something you want or believe in.
Have you had a great pregnancy? What are your tips for having a great pregnancy?
Angela Parker, SLP, CCC is head writer of GrassfedMama.com. She was born and raised in Louisiana, but moved to Richmond, Va recently for a new adventure. She has been married for almost 10 years to her high school sweetheart and has two little girls: Aidalyn and Annaleigh. She’s a speech therapist by trade, but decided to be a stay at home mom while her girls are little. Her passions include health, wellness, healing through nutrition, natural medicines, cooking with whole foods, and natural parenting.  Check her out at Grassfed Mama. Follow her on Pinterest, Google +, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook
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Guest Post by Amanda of Attached Moms
Six years ago I became a mother. It was on that day, February 23rd, that, after a failed induction, I was rolled in to surgery, puking and shivering and became a mother. It would be a few hours until I met my daughter but, giving birth, no matter the way, can change a person.
Within weeks of my daughter being born, my husband and I sat down and watched a movie we had put off because we didn’t want to stress right before having a baby. That movie was “Business of Being Born.”
As my daughter lay in my arms, we were consumed by the movie and at the end my husband asked, “Is this a script?” You see, all the bantering that went on in the movie, we heard. Everything from “You won’t get an award for this” to the nurses asking my husband whether or not he wanted to see me in so much pain. We heard it all. Of course, in retrospect, we should have watched it before giving birth. For a year after, perhaps even longer, my husband would tell people about the movie if he heard they were expecting. It touched him that deeply.
Preparing for a VBAC
From there on out, I researched my options. I had chosen the hospital for my daughter’s birth because it had a slightly less cesarean rate than the other hospital the practice I was with had an option for. Little did I know I’d be the only one “choosing” the less-posh hospital so the doctor on call wouldn’t visit me and instead relied on the bantering nurses to determine how I was not progressing.
The same nurses who laughed and said “you don’t think people actually use those” when I showed up for my induction with a birthing/yoga ball. I should have known then that things weren’t going to go well. The same nurses who didn’t feel my stomach at all to find that my daughter was transverse.
I decided to wait until my daughter was 2 to try for another kiddo, since statistically it meant for a higher VBAC rate.
In the end, I ended up getting pregnant a bit sooner than I had thought. My son was born 26 months and 5 days after my daughter came into the world.
I shopped around for a new doctor. My insurance didn’t accept a midwife, so I looked around. Then, someone told me a midwife overseen by an MD in the same practice was accepted, so at 23 or so weeks, I dropped my OB (one who claimed she was vbac friendly as she had a cesarean and a natural birth herself) but her questions like “what’s your shoe size” and the like just didn’t make me feel like it would happen. So, I changed and guess what, I was happy.
For the first time, someone talked to me. They told me what my chart from my daughter’s birth said. We discussed things. I tested my own urine. I was in charge and encouraged to question the norm and research what it was that was being requested of women at visits. I was told what to expect and I was told that I should prepare myself for a variety of things.
The midwives in the practice were encouraging. When the nurses at the hospital gave me the “dead baby card” when I didn’t want continuous monitoring, I was given my options, including to sign to refuse the monitoring (a few days later the hospital changed their policy and didn’t require the continuous monitoring for VBAC attemptors) and after that hour of crying and labor stopping, it started back up.
A few days of labor (26 of which in the hospital) and not too much pushing, my son was born via vaginally. Yes, I had tried staydol. Yes I requested an epidural, as I was coming on the 24 hour mark of possibly when my water broke and had had meconeum, but baby was showing fine. Not having the epidural fully take worked to my advantage as I could tell when my body wanted me to push versus having to be “told” when I was contracting. In the end, I did what my body was prepared for. I was ready for a VBAC, but I wasn’t yet confident, but I had one. Now I KNOW my body can do it and I am happy with the results.
Growing from my cesarean
My daughter’s birth helped me grow as a person. I became less trusting of authorities. I’m not sure that before I would have even thought of that to be a positive quality, but really, questioning is a good thing. Not just of doctors, but of everything we hear. We shouldn’t take things for face value. We should be inquisitive, we should want to know when/where/why and how.
Now, we’ve moved abroad and unsure if we’re looking at another baby for us. I consider adoption would really love to have a little snuggly baby and go through pregnancy once more, and maybe even consider a homebirth, but, again, I read a lot of statistics and know that things aren’t necessarily in our odds when it comes to health. But, if we do decide on number three, of if we have a surprise, a baby would be welcome, no matter the outcome, birth and otherwise.
So 6 years ago today, we came home from the hospital and our journey as parents began.
Have you ever had a VBAC?
Amanda McMahon is a freelance content writer who currently lives in the Mumbai, India vicinity with her husband and their two kids. Originally from Michigan, she misses the snow, but not as much as everyone seems to be getting this year. You can find her blogging at Attached Moms and, her newest venture after being amazed by the lack of transparency in schools in India.Â
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Guest Post by Shannon of Growing Slower
Most midwives are happy to have you interview them before committing to choosing their practice. Some even require an initial consultation before you schedule your first prenatal appointment. An interview is not quite as standard practice for obstetricians, but don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions at your first prenatal and change practices if necessary.
This is your chance to ask questions to reveal whether a care provider has the experience and values to help you have your ideal birth experience. It’s so important to be relaxed and comfortable in your with the people who are surrounding you during labor!
Here are the Top 3 Questions:
#1Â What is your philosophy on birth and your role in it?
Your care provider should be as passionate as you are about helping your birth be as close to your birth plan as possible. If you want a natural birth, you’ll probably be looking for a care provider who sees their role as more of an active observer and supporter rather than one of a manager.
#2 What is your rate of c-sections?
#3 What is your standard postpartum and newborn care procedure?
Your birth experience doesn’t end at the moment of birth. I’m sure you’ll be very interested to know what a potential midwife or OB’s views are on postpartum and newborn care.You might be looking for specific information about cord clamping, skin-to-skin contact, establishment of breastfeeding, bathing, vitamin K, eye ointment, and vaccinations.
All these questions work together to tell you what it is you really want to know: “What are my chances of having the birth experience I want with this care provider?”With my work as a birth advocate, writing an entire book about natural birth, and having two pregnancies and home births of my own, I can confidently tell you that unforeseen circumstances probably will arise during your pregnancy or birth.
It’s great to have the peace of mind that when they do, you will know exactly what to expect from your care provider.
What other questions would you have for a midwife or OB?
Shannon Brown writes about pregnancy, parenting, and simple living at GrowingSlower. She is author of Natural Birth Stories: A Real Mom’s Guide to an Empowering Natural Birth. She and her wonderful husband of five years live in Spokane, WA. They are parents to an energetic little boy and a peaceful baby girl.
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Written by Kristin, Guest Post
I am a native of Florida. I should be used to summer heat. I should naturally love and embrace 101 degree heat waves like a pro. August in Florida is just plain old hot! I am still working on the embracing part.
Even with the heat, life must go on as normal. My children love the outdoors and being kept in the house for more than a couple hours can lead to absolute chaos. Playtime outside is a must.
We also have four new hens in our backyard. We have been busy prepping our yard for hens, cleaning waste, restocking hay, scattering feed, and searching for highly desired eggs.
Much of our outdoors time has also been spent prepping our soon-to-be Fall garden. I have been a bit neglectful to our garden this summer which means a lot more work.
Note to every gardener: do not let your garden go in between planting seasons, you will soon come to regret such a decision. Pulling weeds in August, in Florida, is hot!
With all this summer work and play, I have learned, staying hydrated is critical.
Before our real food days, this meant Gatorade, Powerade, and store-bought specialty drinks like powdered lemonade and instant tea. I thought I was hydrating my body, but at the end of the day I felt tired, sluggish, and in great need of something more. My body still yearned for hydration.
Since turning to real food, our family chooses to beat the heat naturally. An approach that quenches the body’s desire for hydration and leaves us energized ready for more work and play.
Five Simple Ways to Beat the Heat Naturally:
1. Water
Water is your best friend in the summer heat, yet many of us just don’t get enough. Lack of water can quickly drain you of essential energy and cause that sluggish 3pm nap-time feeling. I have found the best way to keep myself drinking water is to carry a water bottle everywhere I go! Find a cute water bottle, one you will want to carry and drink from. If you aren’t a fan of plain old water, add a flavor infusion, naturally. My personal favorites are: strawberries, mint leaves and cucumber slices, lemons and cucumbers, and blueberries. Simply add your flavoring to your water (in either a water bottle or a pitcher) and allow to sit in the fridge overnight. By morning you will have a delicious, naturally-flavored water to help keep you hydrated all day.
2. Juice
Seven years ago, my husband and I purchased our first juicer. At the time we weren’t quite sure what to do with it. We started experimenting with various fruits and veggies and later greens and even herbs. All these years later, I still love that juicer! I particularly love it during the summer, when after hours of being in the heat, I am looking for a quick, nourishing, refreshing treat. In a matter of minutes, I can make a perfectly satisfying drink packed full of nutrients. My kids (3 and 1) love to help pick out fruits and veggies to juice and place them through the chute. Here are two of our favorite summer juices:
Strawberry Lemonade:Â 1 lemon (peeled), 2 apples, 1 cup strawberries. Run strawberries through the juicer then add lemon and apples.
 Summer Green Juice: 1 cucumber, 1 handful kale leaves (or any green), 1 apple, 1 lemon (peeled), 3 celery stalks. Run the kale through the juicer wrapped around the cucumber, add the lemon, apple, and celery.
 Watermelon Cooler: 1 lemon (peeled), 2 limes (peeled), 2 apples, 5-6 watermelon slices. Run everything through the juicer. (You can also add mint leaves through the juicer to add a mint twist.)
3. Coconut Water
Coconut water is derived from young, green coconuts. It is a clear liquid with a sweet taste. Coconut water is a perfect substitute for sports drinks as it contains potassium and electrolytes as well as essential naturally-occurring sugars. Coconut water can be purchased in cartons on grocery and health food store shelves or can consumed fresh by purchasing young, green coconuts.
 4. Smoothies and Popsicles
Smoothies are a perfect summer treat as they pack loads of fruits and even veggies along with hydrating liquids such as water, fresh juices, kefir, and coconut water. After hours playing outside, a smoothie can both refresh and refuel the body providing essential vitamins and minerals. Smoothies also make the perfect popsicles! Pour any smoothie blend into popsicle molds, place in the freezer, and hours later enjoy a refreshing summer treat. Super kid-friendly! Need summer smoothie recipes? I love this smoothie recipe round-up from Wellness and Workouts. You can find my favorite Beet-Strawberry Smoothie here.
 5. Soup
Soup may not be the first thing to come to mind when thinking about summer and beating the heat. Generally, when I think of soup I think of sweaters, jackets, and mittens, however, soup is a perfect summer dish. Soups with a broth base provide essential vitamins and minerals to the body which is are easily lost in the heat of summer. I am not a big fan of heating my kitchen up in the heat, so I turn to my trusted crock pot during hot summer months. Placing a few ingredients in the crock pot in the morning means our family will come home to a delicious, nourishing soup to satisfy our tired bodies at the end of the day. Two of my favorite summertime crock pot soups are: Poor Man’s Chicken Noodle Soup and Black Bean and Vegetable Soup . If you just can’t bring yourself to enjoy a hot soup, a simple cold Gazpacho is a wonderfully refreshing summer dinner.
Spending only a few minutes each day, in my kitchen, I can naturally help my family beat the heat. This means we have more energy and are ready for hours of outside time, enjoying all the fun of summer.
How do you beat the heat naturally?
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| Photo Credit: Lotus Carroll via Compfight cc |
Now that warm weather is here, I feel it necessary to take my son outside at least once a day! Sometimes we get out more than that, but our favorite time outdoors is after dinner. It is cool and breezy, and the sun isn’t beating down on us. Plus it wears him out for bedtime, which is always nice!
He hasn’t been interested in all the usual activities (biking, walking, playing catch, etc.). He has been wanting something different, and I can’t say I blame him. What means the most to kids is having our attention…the activity is less important. Make sure you are participating and having fun too! Having a choice of activities is so helpful.
Fun Activities for the Great Outdoors
Here are 5 activities we have been enjoying lately, and I hope you and your kids will too!
1. Fun at the RacesÂ
Kids love to race with Mom and Dad! Set a start line, and a finish line and make the “Ready, Set, Go” exciting. Let them win sometimes, but occasionally take the win, too. My preschooler gets upset sometimes when I win, but I remind him that it isn’t fun if we all don’t get a chance. If he persists, I sit down by the back steps and act sad…he realizes that it hurts to not have turns and gives me a hug right away and apologizes. Then back to the races we go!
Once plain racing gets old, add in some obstacles. We often like to make a rule to jump over every line in the driveway. If you are on grass, you can spin your way to the finish line. Leap, clap, do a funny dance…let your imagination lead the way! Set the rule before each race so that it is clear what is expected of them.
2. Act Like Animals
Choose an animal and go with it! See who can be the most life-like! Most of the time, we are being silly and hopping around like bunnies. My son likes to climb on my back while I am the Mama Bunny. Then he likes to pretend that I can climb on HIS back, and we both have a good laugh.
We also turn this in to a learning activity by me asking, “What other animals can hop?” Then we jump like kangaroos, frogs and birds!
3. Hide and Seek
This is a classic! With the way the world is now, I would make sure that you always know where your kids are, even if you have to peek! Then, pretend you don’t know where they are hiding and take your time finding them. Kids love suspense! When you hide, choose a hiding spot where you can see the child(ren) from as well.
4. Mother May I
Another classic, well worth the time! It is best with a group of people, but younger children may like it even with just you!
All players line up on one line. One player (the “mother”) stands at the finish line. The players take turns asking “Mother may I…” inserting creative ways to get to the finish line. Some examples might include “Mother may I take 3 big jumps?” Or “Mother may I please take 5 little baby steps?”
The “mother” responds with either “yes,” or “no.” If the answer is “no,” he or she must give an alternative, like, “No, but you may take 2 little baby steps,” or whatever they choose.
It is a fun game of trying to get the “mother” to allow you to cross the finish line!
5. Pretend Play
It is always great fun to “play house.” Outside, there are flowers and weeds and leaves that can be used to make “dinner,” rocks for plates, grass for beds, and anything else you can imagine. The possibilities are truly endless! Kids often love to be mother or father for a time, and have the parent be the child.
Remember What is Most Important
I used to be terrible at pretend play (and even outdoor play!). I am a pretty practical person. But when I realized my son wasn’t playing pretend at all, I decided to change things up.
Just do the best you can, without worrying about the outcome. Your kid(s) will just love that you are playing with them, and they won’t care if you look silly or not! Let go and have some fun, and enjoy some sunshine while you’re at it! Have fun outside this summer!
What are some fun ways you like to play outside with your kids?
Sara blogs at A Joyful Mother.She hopes that she can learn along with you, to be the type of mother God desires all of  us to be.Â
You can find her writing about parenting, natural health and remedies, real food and more! You can also connect with her on facebook and pinterest.Â
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