Our intention for our children is simple: to help them know the joy of childhood. Within this joy, we can have a goal of developing their kindergarten readiness. For many, at no other time in their lives, will they be so free to discover and explore. They can cry or laugh with abandon, whatever suits that moment in time for them. All too soon, they will begin sharing the burden of responsibility. Indeed, for some children around the world, this is true already. But in our hearts, what we wish for each of them is a childhood overflowing with joy.
How to facilitate this kind of a childhood is a labor of love, and it will involve both work and play on our parts. It’s important to share with them the joy of reading, of discovery, of creating and interacting with others. Already, some very young children will be showing what gives them the most joy. Remember some of the athletes from the Olympics? Feature articles talked about Gaby Douglas (gold medal gymnastics) climbing and balancing on the furniture at home, and Rosie MacLennan (gold medal trampoline) jumping all around. Other children will have a passion for trains, skating, dinosaurs, nature, or they’ll love to help in the kitchen, or the garage. Some children will want to try everything.
A childhood of experiences and acceptance, surrounded with love, is not just a joy for these few years. It colors the future, establishing lifelong patterns and connections. As your little one plays, can you sprinkle the day with joy?