Mateea will kick-off the week with more hibernation activities surrounding the lovely ‘Bear Snores On’ story, and we will also conclude our Polar Ventures by exploring the live of the indigenous people of the North Pole.
However, since Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year are approaching in quick succession, we this week we will get an early start on Valentine’s Day via lots of lovely STEAM, Literature & Art activities.
But how can we teach our children the meaning of love on a daily basis?
Well, Plant a Kiss, and enjoy the following thoughts on this existential topic:
Yes, Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation for people we love. It reminds us to tell all of our loved ones (not only our sweethearts), how glad we are that they’re in our lives.
However, when we are bombarded for weeks on end with commercial messages insisting that love equals a heart-shaped box of chocolate, it’s a tough call. So, do we need to give our children Valentine’s Day treats? Well, ask yourself this very question: Would your gift create more fondness, trust, and closeness between you and your child?
See, St Valentine’s Day celebrates the ultimate purpose of life = LOVE, NOT chocolate, right? So, teaching the meaning of love, tolerance and acceptance, how to express love, and what it means to be a good friend, creating loving memories, and spending unhurried time together are certainly more valuable than any gift we can buy. It’s a gift that lasts for a lifetime!
So, leaving the chocolate aside, why not make this day about simple acts of love, kindness and compassion that build true intimacy, trust and connection? I know, it’s certainly easier to buy a gift, but just in case, here are a few simple ways to show and teach our children the meaning of love, and how to express love throughout the year:
Modeling and teaching our children about love, friendship, kindness, and inclusion. Being a conscious role model is as important as any other teaching strategy. By watching us give gifts of kindness, time, compassion, respect, and thoughtfulness to the people we love – not just on holidays but throughout the year – they will learn that “I love you” means so much more than three words inscribed on a candy heart.
Expressing “I love you” in words and notes: Giving and expressing love can be very powerful for both the giver and the receiver. A simple note that says, “I love you,” under a pillow, in a backpack, or in a lunch bag can remind our kids throughout the day of our love for her, even when we are absent. Also, let’s think of ways to show gratitude, compassion, and love for the world and community, and share these ideas with our children.
Spending meaningful time together, and being a trustworthy friend. As busy parents and educators, we often find ourselves rushing from place to place and chore to chore. Even though it’s difficult, let’s turn off the televisions, put down the cell phones, be attentive and listen, and spend truly meaningful time with our children, rather than just near them.
Celebrating our children’s best efforts rather than focus on achievements. Let’s make sure that we offer words of encouragement to recognise your child’s efforts, even if they don’t result in winning achievements.
Letting go, listen, and laugh. How can we find time to deepen our connection with our children, given how busy most of us are? Well, let’s show our kids that we love them by slowing down, even if it’s only one day a week. Let’s lie on the couch and read a book together even when our e-mails are waiting to be answered. Let’s take a walk together, and ask our children what they want to talk about and listen intently, even if we had something else on our minds. Let’s daydream with them. Simple thoughts and conversations can spark the imagination, plant a seed of curiosity, or begin a dream. So, let’s dream big: Let’s try to make Every Day Valentine’s Day! We all deserve it!
Teaching the meaning of love
