Small Hands Can Help

As much as I think I need to get accomplished in the day, there is only so much time in the day to do it. And while young children can actually sabotage those plans intentionally or unintentionally, involving them in what you’re doing may actually help. 

I’ve found that my toddler is always under my feet, it seems. Whether I’m in the kitchen cooking dinner or trying to get the laundry from downstairs, she is literally RIGHT there. But, if I can think of ways for her to help, I find myself not near as stressed or inconvenienced.

Having my daughter bring napkins to the table gives her something to do and accomplishes a task that eventually needs to be done. Putting the unfolded laundry in the basket, carrying forks and a butter tub to the table, or helping pick up pillows from the floor are all tasks that a toddler can easily do, and it’s actually helpful for Mom. It also helps teach responsibility, community, and teamwork, which are great life skills that we use each day.

The next time you feel stressed or inconvenienced that your child is seemingly “in your way”, think of how they might be able to help and contribute. Chances are, they’ll feel very useful and excited to be a “big” helper, and you’ll be able to cross a few things off your “to-do” list in the process.