At the park the other day, I was enthralled by a group of 2 to 3 year old boys. They were playing together in the area where the slides and climbing structures were. The ground was covered in wood chips. I could actually see the wheels turning as the first one picked up a piece of wood. The next one picked up a few and another little boy, not to be out done, picked up a handful. No sooner had that happened, I loudly said, ‘NOOOOOOO, don’t throw it.’ Just not in time as all three of them threw their precious pieces of wood chips around. At least they weren’t throwing it at each other, yet. One of the moms nearby saw what was going on and also reiterated not to throw the wood chips.
Wood chips no longer being an option, the boys then started up the ladder to the slides. Up the ladder, across the swinging bridge to the slide platform. Down they went, one by one. Laughing all the way. Next they had to try the ‘rock’ climbing side. Again, one by one they went up the wall and then down the slide.
Soon, that was too easy and they decided to climb through the slide tunnel instead of using the ladder. Each boy in turn climbed up the slide.
Loud yelling of ‘Hi-ya’, ‘Play over here’, ‘This way’ could be heard all over the park.
These boys were not to be missed. I think the ‘Monkey See, Monkey Do’ and ‘I can do you one better’ attitude is innate. It just naturally occurs.
There were a couple of little girls of about the same age playing as well. Their approach to play was drastically different. They were quietly playing on the edge of the play area.
One little girl said “That’s yucky, play here.” Indicating the rubber mats that abut the wood chip covered section. The girls had dolls and things they were playing with and then decided they wanted to swing. This required the moms to help with the swings. No loud peals of laughter or joy as they swung, just quiet reflection.
After the girls got off the swings and began to pack up their toys to go home, the boys invaded the swing set domain. Different type of playing now. Unable to get on the swings by themselves, they chose to see how high they could push the swings. Once again competition began.
‘Higher, Mommy see how high?”
Another little boy, ‘Mommy mine higher, see!”
The moms were watching as the boys played.
“Do you want to swing?” One mother asked. Of course was there any doubt that the boys would want to swing? As a mother lifted her son into the swing, the others began to call out to their moms. Again the competition of who could swing higher, laugh louder etc. commenced.
I am grateful for the chance to observe my grandson and his friends playing. It was an opportunity to just watch and not be a ‘parent’. Yes, I was there should something go awry but as support staff so to speak. A uniquely different position from being a Mom. Sometimes we are so focused on being the parent that we miss out on the NOW part.
The pure joy in a child’s face as he/she makes a discovery.
The simple act of pride when they ‘do by self’.
Their peals of laughter for no apparent reason.
Yes, take the time young parents to enjoy a few moments each day as your child grows. You’ve heard it before, They grow up so fast.
CARPE DIEM