My First Grader Taught Me To Knit

There is so much power in learning from a child.  I can't even count all the lessons I've learned from my son about slowing down, enjoying life, etc.  But to learn a practical skill from a seven year old. . .

Sam attends a Waldorf school, and one of the subjects is Handwork.  In first grade their eighth grade buddies teach them to knit.

So I ask him if he want to teach me to knit, and he explains that I need to make or buy knitting needles and yarn.  I opted for buying them!

He was a patient teacher, and I was quickly hooked.  I'm already looking up videos and he is explaining to me projects I could be making.

Why is this so good?  It's amazing to see your own child as the "expert" and yourself as the "novice."  It gives children confidence in their abilities.  It makes us both more open to learning and trying new things.

What can you learn from your kids or students?

Less Mommy Guilt and More Ease

Summer photo fun selfie at the Akron Art Museum

There is nothing like a few days of summer to experience an ease in parenting that is so lacking during the school year.  Is there anyone out there with me?

I am just feeling so very grateful that I do have today to enjoy getting our haircut together and working in our yard {where fairy gardens will soon abound.}  During the school year I give so much to other people's kids that my son gets ripped off of time and energy. {and often he gets the crabby mood brought on my this state of affairs.}  I want him to be the kid who gets the best I have to offer.  I am simultaneously relieved and saddened.  We have already had very ordinary experiences that were amazing because of the ease I am experiencing.  Is there anyone out there with me?

I'm also recognizing that the mommy guilt just zaps the reserve of energy I do have during the school year.  Why do we let guilt and shame steal our joy?  I am also grateful for this self awareness.

I vote for less guilt and more ease EVERY single day!  Is there anyone out there with me?

P.S. Over at Brave Teachers I shared a little more about living with ease.  Check it out.