Changing of the Seasons!

This has been a harsh winter in Central Indiana. We have had several severe cold days and numerous days of snow and/or freezing rain. Children have been inside more than most winters and, according to most adults you talk with, need to get outside and relieve some of their energy!

What better time to be a part of your child's life than now. Think about ALL of the things you have the opportunity to do with your child as the season changes from winter to spring and the weather begins to improve.

I encourage you to take the time to be involved in your child's play-time this spring. Think about all of the games you can play with your children that fulfill both their desire to have fun and more importantly, the opportunity to spend quality time with you!

Children are very creative and capable of deciding what activities they want to do. Instead of you, as the adult, deciding what you and your children will play, allow them to choose what they want to do with you. By empowering children to choose, you are enhancing an important skill needed to be responsible people. Unfortunately, adults normally make all of the decisions and develop all of the rules to the game. This spring gives us a new beginning and an opportunity to allow our children to be creative and make choices.

The first day of spring is today, March 20th. As I enter this season, I must remember the opportunity it affords me to spend quality time with my children outdoors enjoying "Mother Nature." Also, I need to take the time this spring to reflect on the small stuff that I could do for my children to empower them in their "family-style" choice making. What examples do you have in regards to empowering your children? What fun activities have your children convinced you to participate in with them?