Gratitude journal: The family dinner

Tonight I am grateful for our family dinner, little one. 

This evening, you asked that we read to you during dinner, but Mommy suggested that we talk instead.  You weren’t too keen on the idea at first, but a little redirection had you devouring apple slices and cheese as Mommy and I discussed the day.

'Then you decided to speak.  “Layla took my seat today, Daddy” you said.

Mommy was already aware of the incident, which occurred just prior to leaving school.  She explained that while you were getting ready to leave, one of your friends sat down in the chair that you were previously occupying. 

In the world of two-year old children, this is apparently a big deal. 

“What did you do when Layla took your seat?” I asked.

“I told Mommy,” you said said. 

Mommy and I reinforced this decision as a good one.  We then role played some things that you could have said to Layla in order to solve the problem yourself,

“Maybe I can call Ari tonight on the computer and tell him all about it,” you suggested. 

“Sure,” I said.  “If that will make you feel better, that’s a great idea”

Then you suggested that we call Layla’s mommy, too. 

We tried to explain that this was unnecessary, and after you persisted with the idea, we successfully redirected you back to the idea of calling Ari.

The whole conversation fascinated me.  My little girl, who will turn three next week, decided to discuss a problem that occurred at school with her parents while sitting at the dinner table.  You explained the problem, described your solution, and offered alternative ways of making yourself feel better about the problem.

You also acted a little bit like a helicopter mom in suggesting that we call Layla’s mother, but that’s okay.  You’ll learn. 

Had we read the book as you requested or not sat down for dinner together, this conversation would have never happened, and the problem solving, role playing and reinforcing that took place would have never happened.

Even worse, the immense pride I felt in listening to my daughter describe her day would have been lost forever.

I’m feeling very grateful for the family dinner tonight, little one, and am looking forward to the next one.