Mom shows up calmly in the midst of chaos

When our little people are overwhelmed by big emotions, it is our job to share our calm, not join their chaos.

~ L.R. Knost

This week we attended story time at the local library.

It was fun to observe our four-year-old and two-year-old granddaughters react to what they observed.

A mom walked in with five children, who I’d guess ranged in age from two to no older than eight, including twins.

Her children started to play with the toys that were set out. A little boy snatched a shiny ball from his sister. She cried and then hit him forcefully over the head. The little boy cried hysterically.

Mom gently and calmly picked up the little girl, separated her from her siblings, and privately disciplined and consoled her. I was impressed by her calm disposition in the midst of chaos. Clearly, she can manage a large family.

The little boy quickly recovered, enjoying his shiny ball.

Our two-year-old granddaughter, upon observing the incident, whispered that they were not being kind. They were not sharing. Her sister agreed.

They, too, occasionally fight, but it was memorable to witness them acknowledge unkind behaviour.

Closing thought

Every day, in a 100 small ways, our children ask, ‘Do you hear me? Do you see me? Do I matter?’ Their behaviour often reflects our response.

~ L.R. Knost

Children will misbehave. How we show up when they do leaves an imprint on them.