I was reminded yesterday that children are so happy when there is space. Space to run, space to explore, space to move, space to be together and space to be apart. I felt this way on our recent holiday to Portugal. There was so much space to explore within a large, safe boundary. It makes children happy and parents relaxed, and it’s something I need to remember. I also need to remember that children appreciate familiarity, it makes them feel secure – just like asking for a remote control helicopter session on arrival at Granny and Grandad’s house, or slipping on the dinosaur wellies on arrival at Grandma’s house. Kids love it, or at least – mine do.
These two things make such a difference when planning days out. Win loves it when he has been somewhere before, and I love watching him lead our visit. He enjoys showing Ru where to go, and it makes my life easier because the boys know what they can and can’t do without having to remind them. I love having days out with friends and family, and in some ways it is much easier (especially toilet visits), but I do love it when it’s just us. It means I don’t miss anything, and it can restore balance between us.
We used to frequent our local RSPB reserve when it was just the two older boys and I, but we haven’t been for a good few months. I thought it was high time I took the plunge with the three of them, and I’m so glad I did. We had a lovely time and stayed just under four hours. It is nice to do new things, but going to the same places over and over again serves a purpose too. Days feel far less hectic when you’re outdoors, so even if the baby won’t settle, and the two year old poos himself (!) – it’s still goes down as a wonderful day.
E xx
Oh this looks like a fabulous day out! And I agree with you, my two always have a wonderful time when there is plenty of time and space for running around outdoors.
Nat.x
It certainly gets rid of tension – and that’s just the adults! x
Being outdoors restores good for adults too don’t you think. My littles love the outdoors too, and as mentioned before… Poo situations do create such a moment but with kids it’s got to be a take things in their stride approach… Until it’s more than one kid doing it haha xx
Yes absolutely! “I need a poo”…always sends me into a mild panic! x
Couldn’t agree more Est! These pics are lovely and you can see the confidence and excitement from Win and Ru, loving revisiting a fun spot!
I love to see my kids having space to go a little nuts, climb, explore and grow, it relaxes them and me and I find parenting so much easier being out in a safe space like you say! I have lots of plans over summer to do just this… I hope that we can do a valley gardens and magna visit with you guys at least though haha x
Totally. I love watching them explore! Valley gardens…I am so up for that! xx