“Good try, Mommy.” Dinner may be burning, a stack of folded laundry may now be covering the floor or better yet, the latest DIY project may resemble something cobbled together during toddler art time when I hear a tiny voice utter those words. They’re reminders that I’m always being watched. And it’s not only okay but important for my children to see me try and not always succeed.
Children Love Watching Their Parents
Shoes often go missing from my closet. Last night, I leaned over to kiss my three-year-old goodnight and found one of my necklaces around her neck. If I don’t watch them get ready for bed, they’ll raid my pj drawer. I’ll often find my four-year-old carefully studying me at the dinner table and mirroring the placement of my arms and the expression on my face. As my husband says, “they want to be you.”
Children Often Mirror Their Parents’ Behavior
A few months ago, my four-year-old had an open book in her lap. She was studying a page when she suddenly threw it saying “I can’t read.” She’s four?! She’s not supposed to read. Wrong answer. It took me a moment to realize that was me. I don’t have much patience for not excelling at any new skill quickly. Apparently, she doesn’t either.
Children Need to See Their Parents Try
As a mom, I’m always preaching patience and encouraging them to try new skills knowing it may take some time to master it. Great advice! I needed to take it. So, I did.
I’d always wanted to tap as a child but never had time. Now, the only adult dance class that fits with my schedule is tap. Perfect! When I started, I knew about four steps. Even with a ballet background, the timing and additional steps didn’t come as quickly as I’d hoped. I practiced at home, earning numerous choruses of “good try, Mommy.” I kept going to class every week. Eventually, I got better. I even performed on stage in front of a theatre full of strangers.
Yes, it felt silly being part of an adult recital. I did forget a few steps. But I kept moving and trying. The stage fright and feeling of dread knowing I was going to potential humiliate myself was worth it when I heard the same tiny voices yelling, “hi, Mommy” from the audience. I even got greeted with enthusiastic hugs and flowers at the end of the show from my number one fans. Most importantly, they saw me try something new and how some new skills take a lot of practice and time…. no matter how old you are.
Here’s the best part- I got to watch them confidently dance onstage at their recital the next day!
Try something new! You’re never too old to try.
