scribblechic

There was a time my children woke each day, promptly at 7 o’clock, despite the day or season. Our morning routines evolved naturally and I embraced the opportunity to spend a carefree moment with both children before they were swept into the structured schedule of their school day. Lately, my early birds have nestled more deeply beneath their blankets and their footsteps have become weighted with resistance; smiles hidden behind yawns.

In a decision as uncomplicated as waking up, I let go of our routine and traded playtime for sleep. It was a simple adjustment, evolving as naturally as the routine it replaced.  This morning my son paused in the kitchen to thank me for letting him sleep.  As he washed his breakfast dishes, a formality often overlooked as he sleepwalked through the morning, he opened up saying he felt grateful that I didn’t “baby” him.  I hadn’t considered such a simple adjustment could foster  a greater sense of independence.  I let go of an hour and gained an unexpected moment of insight.

Tagged: Morning Routine