The Positives
As many of you know, I have 2 granddaughters. Most of you know Lacy who is in 5th grade at our school. My oldest granddaughter is Lily who is 13.
The other day Lily said to me “You know Grandma, a lot of good has come out of quarantine.” This had me thinking.
I had purchased flowers to be planted. After we were sure there would not be any frost, the girls insisted on doing all the planting, ALONE! They told me not to look until they were done. They were out there for hours, weeding, preparing the flower beds, and planting. They even placed some in pots. They did a wonderful job, that I could have not done better myself. You see, ever since they were of preschool age, I let them help me. Over the years, they would water my plants and pick off dead heads. When they were younger, they had their own little gloves and watering cans.They would help dig holes, or place flowers, or pat the soil down.They have been learning what goes in the sun, and what goes in the shade. Since I truly enjoy gardening, I had no intention of them doing all this. However, I trusted them because since they were little, they were taught this life skill.
Lacy is 10, and since quarantine, she has learned to cook independently. She has baked cakes and brownies. She enjoys making eggs, french toast or pancakes for breakfast. Lacy loves to help anyone preparing dinner, even if it is as simple as peeling potatoes. She has learned about the settings on the stove and oven, and does it properly without supervision. Again, the skills we have all shown her since she was younger led up to this. Of course preschoolers, aren’t mature enough to do most of this. However, spreading with a butter knife, cutting softer fruits and vegetables, helping set the table are things they can be doing.
Lily has shown an interest in sewing. I personally, can’t do anything more than sew a button! She has been hand sewing cute little animals out of old socks and giving them button noses. Preschoolers can learn how to thread a needle, use lacing cards or weaving looms.
So yes, I have to agree with Lily. The good that comes with quarantine are the life skills they are learning!
Thank you for sharing! Very important to get kids ready to be independent, especially in young girls. It creates good self-esteem & self confidence. I can relate to your sewing story. Because of my fascination and curiousity with sewing I use to watch my best friends mom sew everything they wore. When I was 12 my parents bought me my own machine. I ended up making my wedding dress & my bridesmaids dresses! Tell Lilly to stick with it, she could be a fashion designer one day! Beth
Thank you Beth! Wow that’s pretty impressive to make your wedding dress and bridesmaids. I will give Lily your message. Very proud of both the girls!
Excellent points Ms Sue. Great job Lacy and Lily and great job to you for allowing them the opportunity to grow and learn new skills. We never stop learning.
Thank you very much! I am very proud of both of them!