Finches and Gerbils and Dogs, Oh My!!

     As moms, there is this tendency to make sure we are providing our kids with the very best – in technology, opportunity, games, etc. It can sometimes be covered up with our good intention to help Junior get ahead in life, though in actuality, there might be a little “keeping up with the Joneses” sprinkled in there.

     Even with my one year old, I listen to the books other children have, the Leap Frog Activity Table (as if it’s somehow more superior to another brand table that I have), the Baby Einstein blocks (not just any old wooden blocks, but Baby Einstein ), and it’s easy for my mind to wander. Am I doing the right things? Does she have the right kind of books, games, etc that is going to really connect those neurons so that she can guarantee her valedictorian spot by age 5?

     Well, if you find yourself worrying or having moments like those, just STOP! Every opportunity you provide your child with is beneficial – socially, intellectually, and cognitively. And while the moments may not be at the top of the tier in some people’s eyes, it is at the top for one who really matters – your baby!

     Take for instance, Petsmart. My husband and I were simply walking in to get a bag of dog food for our beloved, but now “slightly neglected since baby has arrived” Miniature Schnauzer. Seemed routine enough. To our delightful surprise, our daughter lit up in there! She was pointing and ooing and aahing at everything, from the gigantic dog and cat figurines hanging in the air, to the fish, the dogs and cats in the store, as well as the pretty Finches flying around in their cages.

     Let me say again, this was not the Zoo, this was not Deanna Rose…..it was Petsmart. Yes, Petsmart, a dog’s grocery and toy store. But to our daughter, this was such an exciting place full of new creatures, sights and sounds. For us, it was a good lesson in reminding ourselves that there can be joy and pleasure found in anything for a young child.

     What every day, typical place did your child suddenly take an interest in that surprised you? How do you resist the pressure to “keep up with the Joneses”?