The other day I decided to do something I had never done before: ride my bike 20 miles. When I make my mind up to do something, I always accomplish my goals and this time was no different. I started a little later in the day than I wanted and the sun was getting hot but I continued on. About six miles in there was a very steep hill. As I was riding up the hill, I realized how hard it was going to be. Then my internal five-year-old voice started saying in my head "I think I can, I think I can." My absolute favorite book The Little Engine That Could was playing in my ear encouraging me that I could make it up that hill, just as the little train did.
What was your favorite book as a child? Read it to your kids, they will love it. Tell them stories of how old you were, how many times you read it and what the story meant to you. "I Think I Can" has been a guiding line all of my life. Just tell me that I can't do something and watch what happens. I think I can, and I will do it!
What books do you read to your child? Do they have a positive message? Reading to your child creates memories that last a lifetime. Holding a book in your hand, feeling the pages turn all help to create sensory memories. Taking them on a trip to the bookstore or library and picking out a book is so much fun. Once a month make a special trip with them and watch what they are drawn to. Underneath that favorite book is a connection to who they are. Reading it over and over will help to reinforce that connection.
Words are powerful. In the preschool that my children attended the teachers told them fairytales. This allowed the children to create their own images in their heads as they heard the story. The more a child uses their imagination the more it grows and grows. Tell your kids a story and see what picture they create in their minds. How about telling them a beautiful story about a memory you had as a child. This lets them imagine you as a child, which helps them see you in a different way. Adding feeling words, like "I was scared, sad, happy..." gives them permission to express their feelings.
My bother read the entire Harry Potter series to his children when they were younger. What a wonderful thing for a dad to do. I could imagine his three kids completely mesmerized by the words he was reading. Reading chapter books takes time, commitment and consistency. This is something your kids could really look forward to. As the story is told, memories are made and seeds are being planted. In this fast-paced, high-tech world it is important to let them know that good things can take time. It teaches them to enjoy the moment and the process of reading, not just finishing the book. These are great lessons in patience and consistency, which are the foundations of a mindful home.
Repeat after me, "I think I can."