My Kids Are Perfect!

My kids are perfect. It's true, they are. If you have kids, they are too. I had a lot of time to reflect while I was away, especially on the 18 hours it took to get there. The conclusion of my reflecting on books I've read, stories I've heard, advice I've been given, and my own experience, is my kids are perfect. 

And here's why:

*When my kids are bossy, it shows me that they have leadership qualities.

*When they are demanding, it shows that they know what they want and they are willing to fight for it.

*When they cry, I know they are learning to deal with their emotions.

*When they throw a tantrum, it shows they are struggling with those emotions and could probably use a little help figuring out what they are.

*When they throw a tantrum while out in public, it just shows they've had enough. Chances are they don't know it, so that's why they can't just say it. 

*When they are "acting out", it shows that they are good problem solvers by figuring out how to get the attention they need.

*When they don't listen, it shows they are independent and chances are they won't just do what their friends say either.

*When they fight with each other, they are just working on their relationships and testing their boundaries with each other. 

*When they are moving slower then a snail, it's their way of showing us that getting ready quickly isn't important to them and we should give them more time next time.

*When they seem absolutely impossible to deal with, it shows they are working on some really big stuff and we are just about to see a big development leap. 

Now, it's how we handle all these situations that determines whether the behaviours are used for their intended purpose, to learn and grow. The good news is, there are many right ways. It's definitely not easy, and many times I cry, throw tantrums, and get bossy, but that's okay because I'm learning too. 

So, the next time you see a child "acting out" in public, just try to remember that that they've got a lot going on and a lot of stuff they are trying to learn. And before assuming it must be the parents fault, remember that they are learning too!