Parenting Weekend

Accepting the Mess

November 13, 2021

I WILL NOT CLEAN THIS UP

(Though I am tempted)

Trying to get better at accepting messes that are entirely non-urgent. We do have a rule that the kids have to pick up all toys (we do an ‘inspection’) prior to screen time in the afternoon, so I can feel confident that this will not be there forever. Nor is it causing any harm (unless I step on a Lego).

This is level 2 parenting, folks. Just a mere 9.5 years in . . .


Also? This has been the absolute best Daylight Savings transition we have ever had. Honestly, if anything it just helped the kids get up in better moods for school. Today everyone left us alone until 7:20 am (at which point I was ready to get up anyway).

This feels like a milestone.

Happy Saturday!

4 Comments

  • Reply gwinne November 13, 2021 at 1:20 pm

    Oh, I feel you on the kid mess. Sometimes I ask myself whether I would be happier if I (a) left things alone, (b) picked it up myself, or (c) nagged a kid to do it. Honestly it is often B. We do have a ‘reset’ at night also. And when things get really bad there’s the bag/box in the basement method.

    I will say one of my recent reads (Clutterbug) gave me some insight into why the visual clutter makes me nuts but Tiny Boy requires all his stuff out. It’s not just kid issue but fundamental personality difference. He quite literally does not see his stuff as “clutter” or “mess.” And me telling him to “pick it up” is just going to result in items being placed on a table or shelf or other place that is still MESSY. I want things away, out of sight at all times, in order.

    • Reply Sarah Hart-Unger November 13, 2021 at 9:27 pm

      Wish I didn’t see it!!!!

  • Reply omdg November 13, 2021 at 2:10 pm

    I moved all the toys to Dyl’s room, and I rarely go in there… so. It helps. Congratulations on reaching this milestone! 😉

    It actually drives me insane when my husband “helpfully” puts my stuff away. Then I can’t find it when I need it!

    • Reply Sarah Hart-Unger November 13, 2021 at 9:26 pm

      When we move I think many more toys / games / craft supplies / etc will be stored in rooms. The mess maker is 90% G at this point so I KNOW it gets better. I just forget exactly when . .

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