Summer and Independence

Hope still has about one more week of school left, but we're gearing up for summer break! I have been tucking away ideas for little outings and activities, and getting myself ready for the more laid-back summer schedule.

Chief among my preparations is getting these two to play with each other WITHOUT me. In a bunch of little ways, we're working toward independence wherever it's appropriate, and playing ought to be one of those places. Don't get me wrong, I love spending time with them. And there are some things that I genuinely enjoy playing with them. But it has come to my attention that they don't need - or shouldn't need - for me to "entertain" them all day everyday. Besides how exhausting that gets, I don't want to be that parent that hovers over my kids all the time, who babies them and doesn't encourage their independence.

If it goes well, and I'm hopeful, then this bit of training in independent play will reward all of us. And I'm hoping it also draws Hope and Grant even closer together, making them each others' first choice for a playmate. I want them to grow up enjoying each other, and when they're grown, to take care of each other. For now, it's my privilege!