Something Playful #3
The Work of Being Present, Coffee Table Play, Family Dinners With Teens & Summer Finds
Hi! I skipped writing Something Playful last week because I was busy doing something that’s hard for me. I was practicing putting down work to make room in my brain and my heart to pick up more family responsibilities. Being the mom of three and running my own business takes a lot of juggling, and to say I can get overwhelmed with it all would be a massive understatement. I want both. I want to be a very involved, present, and hands-on mom to my kids, AND I want to run a successful business that empowers parents all over the world to build more connection and play in their own families. It’s a lot, and it’s worth it. Last week I traveled to the midwest with my oldest on a college recruit trip, I took my middle daughter to a doctor appointment an hour away and then spent time together doing a little retail therapy, and I took my littlest (who is not so little anymore) to tour a more neurodiverse school which might be an option for her. At the end of the week, we had a big surprise party at our home to celebrate my oldest child, who recently competed on the national level and got crowned an All-American in the 5k event. We have A LOT going on…. I am not complaining, I am beyond grateful. And there just aren’t enough hours in the day. So last weekend, after attempting to schedule out all of my content, write various articles, etc, I had a moment. I slammed my computer shut and just decided to let go of work. I wanted to be present for everything I had coming up, and so I had to make some choices. I believe that the most important 'work' is creating space for connection and presence with our children, and it was important to practice that, even when it was hard. Long story short? It was worth it. And with that, here is Something Playful #3.
My kids are 12, 15, and 17, and I still keep toys on our coffee table. Having a playful home is important to me, and keeping toys out keeps kids and adults playing. At our party this week, the parents, the high schoolers, and the little siblings all played with the toys that we had out on various coffee tables around the house.
These acrylic blocks are irresistible. I bought them to keep on my coffee table in the den because they’re pretty and functional, but my daughter keeps snagging them for her room. I bought the small set, but I wish I had more. (If your kids are under three and they throw toys, skip these. They are heavy and not for throwing.)
These interlocking discs are always in use. Even the 6-foot, deep-voiced high school seniors who come over find themselves clicking them into place without even realizing what they are doing. The possibilities are endless, and these toys are great for preschoolers to grandparents. Here is the container we keep them in.
Mini-magnetic tiles are a no-brainer. Here are the ones we have, but I would guess that any brand would be just as good.
Well, I listened to them. I love to read, but as I get older, my eyes can’t take it. I also find that I get more things done around the house if I am listening to a good book. Anytime you see me doing dishes, folding laundry, or vacuuming, you better believe I have headphones in with a good audio book playing.
Omg, The Tell was so good. It took me out. I binged it. One of those books you can’t stop thinking about. Counting Miracles took a long time to get into. I didnt love the narrator, but once it was over, I realized I liked it. (Do you have books like that?) I am listening to Retreat right now. It’s one of those con artist-meets-socialite stories, and I’m here for it.
Once a week, I encourage my kids to invite a friend for dinner. It’s usually on Monday or Tuesday, when we still have a full fridge of groceries. I text my high schoolers during the day, tell them what we are having, and ask them if they want to bring a friend and to confirm yes or no by 3pm. I don’t make anything special, it’s never fancy, and we always eat early. The main focus is providing a feeling of togetherness and showing the kids that what matters to them matters to us. And right now, at 12,15, and 17, their friends matter most.
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Great ideas for connections.
Love these ideas and prioritizing friends.