We haven’t been hitting the books very hard lately.
What we have been doing is talking about graduations.
I know – it’s a bit early to start this conversation. (Then again, much to my South African husband’s annoyance, we are all about graduation celebrations here in the US – from preschool, kindergarten, and all the way on up.) But I do enjoy the celebration of milestones.
I’ve been thinking how the things we celebrate are the ones that shape our children’s lives: as little ones, they start looking forward to their own graduations; their own weddings. Not everything clicks for every kid, but that one dance recital, that one valedictorian speech, that one championship game, that one baptism, makes them think – I want to do that – be that – someday!
And so I’ve also been thinking about being more intentional in celebrations with my preschooler. I’ve got no intention to dictate her personal goals, career choices, and aspirations, but the environment we create will set the bar, plant the seeds, light the path for her future.
- Explain the celebration. If attending a graduation or recital, discuss the steps it took to get there.
- Celebrate the everyday. I’ve spent so much of my life anticipating the next thing – living for the future. It’s time to celebrate the first tulip in spring, the freshly-mown lawn, perfectly-ripe watermelon, the new shoe size. I want my child to find joy in the moment.
- Celebrate excellence. Don’t mistake the everyday for the mediocre – excellence in the everyday is what’s worth celebrating. Set the bar realistically high as you celebrate the well-set table, the first book, the flawless recitation, the grasping of a new math concept, the meeting of a deadline.
- Focus on the people. As kids, the focus of celebration is the presents. As we get older, it shifts to the food – at least in our family. Somehow, I’d like to shift the focus to the person, the achievement, and the people who contributed to the achievement.
- Be generous. Demonstrate giving to those being celebrated. Don’t be stingy – and I’m not (necessarily) talking about money, but about time, attention to detail, and a host of other – more valuable – resources.
- Celebrate a variety of things. Attend a range of sports events, recitals, and parties in your friendship circle. You never know what activity will spark your child’s interest.
- Mix traditional and new. It’s nice to have solid, meaningful traditions included in our celebrations that can be passed on to future generations. Appreciate our heritage. At the same time, many of my favorite memories were the exceptions that stood out from the traditions. Don’t be afraid of trying new things.
- Support passion. Especially when they are little, it’s easy to brush off the excitement of twirly ballet dances and colorful picture essays. When you see a passion develop, pay attention – and celebrate!
- Give God the glory. Acknowledge the Giver of all good gifts.
