Care for young children to become a better version of yourself

Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.

~ C.S. Lewis

My husband and I have again embraced the opportunity to care for our four-year-old and two-year-old granddaughters all week, while our daughter works from our cottage.

To get the two-year-old to fall asleep at a reasonable hour at night, we have had to forgo the daily nap, which provided a welcome opportunity to clean up and prepare meals in peace.

We have also been challenged to avoid screens.

So far, so good. We don't have expensive toys, and the lake is still too cold for water play, so we read books. When a couple of ducks visit daily, the joy is exhilarating because we have read Make Way for Ducklings and have learned about Mr. and Mrs. Mallard looking for a safe place to raise their ducklings.

We also forage for mini wild strawberries, play hide-and-seek, water plants, colour and paint.

The two-year-old is being toilet-trained and there are accidents. The house is a mess, but the children are happy, and that is what matters.

While we love our grandchildren unconditionally and will forever cherish the memories, patience, tolerance, and selflessness sometimes get tested. This presents an opportunity for growth.

Although not everyone is cut out to be a caregiver, I do believe we should all challenge ourselves to care for young children to understand the demands placed on young families and to become better versions of ourselves.