This might be a crazy thing to say, but stay with me, toddlers are fun. Sure, half the time they are having a melt down because they have ketchup on their hands and can’t figure out how to use a napkin or just lick their fingers off like the rest of us, or they’re slowing destroying the house while you’re being held hostage by a nursing newborn on the couch. But, in the time in between, they make so many things so much more fun.
Going to the movies.
I’ve always loved going to the theatre to see a movie – the popcorn, huge soda, candy – everything about the whole experience was so fun. But now, taking my toddler to the movies is my favorite thing about going to a movie. Not only do I now have a real reason to go and see all those cartoon movies – that I always want to see anyway – but, watching him have the same experience I’ve had every time at the movies is the best. Okay, sure, he might talk very loudly through the whole movie…but, still I love it.
Dancing and singing.
Watching a toddler dance or sing just puts a smile on your face. My son was sort of a late dancer, he didn’t really dance or bounce as a baby like most babies do. So, when he started dancing and singing when he was a toddler, it was the best day! Just watching them dance like they don’t have a care in the world – because, literally, they don’t – is a real stress reliever. The only downside I can see is you’ll never get to listen to your music in the car ever. again. Or, you will, but you’ll have someone singing “Pop, goes the weasel!” as loud as they can over your music.
Coloring.
There’s a reason they’ve started selling adult coloring books as a soothing tool for the anxious or stressed out. Coloring is relaxing!
Bringing home a new baby.
Yes, it’s also probably the hardest thing you can do with a toddler – all those emotions they are trying to sort out, and them realizing this means less time and attention from mom. And sure, he might show up at the hospital to meet his new baby sister in his Batman costume – but, that’s pretty great. He’ll also love her so much that he won’t let anyone else take her – not even the nurses. And watching that bond form is going to be pretty fun.
Eating ice cream.
Have you ever noticed that a kid eats ice cream every time like it’s their first time ever tasting it? That’s the best. Sure, we eat way more ice cream than we should, but how can you deny such little pleasures in life? Just eat the ice cream!
So, yes, I’m about to be deep in the “threenager” stage, and I’ve got more tantrums and meltdowns than I can count coming my way, but I’m going to try and focus on these little fun things. Also, I’m going to eat a lot of ice cream.
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