If you have met Annabeth Hinderling you know she oozes love & plays it on the piano.
She is our wonderful music & movement teacher. With yoga, dance, funky instruments and sometimes dirt, she gently urges our children to explore with their bodies and voices. I feel so fortunate my children know her. I am always so happy to volunteer on days she is teaching. I asked her for her recipe for a happy childhood. Here is her response:
RECIPE FOR A HAPPY CHILDHOOD:
Ingredients
books
*alot of them
*have them in every room in baskets, even in the bathroom
*take many moments through out the day to stop let your child sit on your lap and read a book together.
* talk about what you see in the book... colors... what does it remind you of...
*engage in conversation
*sing the story... watch for the rhythms in the story..
*Look for stories with meaning and those that are age appropriate. Enjoy the content and the wonders of children's stories along with your child.
* Find books that have humor ..laugh and giggle alot together.
It is bonding!
* There are classics like Eric Carle....Richard Scarry..Good Night Moon and an endless amount more. Magazines with pictures are also delightful.
* Visit the library often and browse through book stores. Exchange books with other family.
And remember.. You cannot open a book without learning something.
music
* All genres from classical to jazz, rock and roll and of course children's songs.
*Sing with your children...Sing songs you sang as a child....It is always clear when a song is fun. When a melody stays with us it is a fun tune.
*Create sounds and rhythms together. STOP and listen to the sounds in nature that is such pure music.
*Along with all the music, dance a lot with your children.
and remember: Singing and Dancing are the ancient expression of JOY
toys
* wooden blocks, magnets, scarf, dress up clothes, water, dirt, recycle material, paint, clay, home made play dough, paper, space, nature,leaves, sticks, stones, shells, the park , the beach,FRIENDS,FAMILY and a safe calm joyful surrounding.
remember: A toy does not have to be found only in a toy store.
misc.equipment
Slides, swings, bikes, parks, space, hiding spots are all wonderful. But most important is that a child is surrounded by love and joy and feels safe. And remember: There is no equipment that can replace inner safety, trust or peace.
Special Instructions:
As a parent take good care of your self. Rest enough so you can enjoy your child. Play, Sing, Dance and giggle a lot. Children grow so fast and then the time you shared together will be a memories. CREATE MEMORIES...Golden ones
And remember: We will be known forever by the tracks we leave. Native American Wisdom
side note from Annabeth...
I just recently came to the conclusion that the wrinkles on my faces have all been created by all the smiles children have shared with me. That must be why they are called "Story Lines." Welcome them.
Try to be on the same page as parents. Discuss differences together and not in front of the children unless it has to do with team work or decision making including the children.Lastly stop and listen to your children. Don't rush through the day. Learn from the crow in the picture (below) and for this do not obey the sign.:)
Reflect at the end of your day and make sure you did everything on your part to make it a special one not only for your child but also for YOU!
Thank you Annabeth for what you do and who you are! You are so generous!
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