LET THEM PLAY SERIES: MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED

I decided to start a series called Let Them Play.  In a world dominated by pressure to succeed, we must remember that imagination and free play is the best way to have our children remain children.  It encourages positivity, moving our bodies and exercising our minds.  Our days are spent playing.  It is through play that we learn the most, try on our personalities, and explore.

This post is dedicated to jumping on the bed.  So many times we tell our children to get off the couch and just go jump on Mama and Papa's bed.  I think for them, the idea that they can do something that would otherwise be discouraged is empowering.

In our home, our room is shared.  We have always bedshared with our babes.  Although the two eldest have their own beds, the littlest babes sleep with the Papa and me.  It definitely meant an upgrade to a King!  Our open door policy, I hope, also encourages them to feel safe in our space and safe to speak freely and be themselves.  It is in our room where their innermost thoughts come out.  Issues that seem to be bugging them surface.  Stories are told.  Love is shared.  Cuddling and tickle fights are a daily ritual.

It is on this bed where they are allowed to be their monkey selves.  So much laughter emanates from the simple joy of jumping.  It even gets me and the Papa involved.  I've done my share of handstands and flips.  The babes can't get enough.  Seeing ones parents let loose and do the unthinkable for grown-ups is pleasing.

Vye, our littlest babe, is a hopping genius.  She has been tumbling she she was less than 18 months old with such precision and coordination that it is astounding.

It is on this bed that little dreams are made.  They imagine themselves as performers and ballerinas.  Shows are put on.  Smiles plaster their little faces.  Memories are made.  So...let them play.

What fun and unconventional things to you do with your babes?  We love to hear.  Please comment below.  I respond to each and every comment.  

4/52: 52 WEEK PORTRAIT CHALLENGE

Each week for 52 weeks, I post of portrait of each of my babes.  It is a simple way to capture moments of their innocence and personalities.  If you would like to do the 52 week challenge, start any time.  Post links to the project in my comments so I can follow along.

Ivy:  still a laying down babe.  I love looking into her eyes and love her goofy smile
Vye:  selfie...sort of
Char:  never am I able to capture a serious one of this babe
Harri:  she has taken to drawing most of the day...it is bliss

3/52: 52 WEEK PORTRAIT PROJECT

Each week, for a year, I am taking a photograph of each babe to document their little, extraordinary and ever-changing lives.  This is a way to look back through the moments of bliss and joy and remember to pause in those moments.  If you would like to be part of the 52 Week Project, start at any time.  Place links in the comments.  I love making new friends and I respond to every comment.

Charlotte:  obsessed with lego
Harriet:  obsessed with half-nakedness
Ivy:  obsessed with those lips
Vye:  obsessed with cutting her hair "by self"

2/52: 52 WEEK PORTRAIT PROJECT

 THEME:  Cute faces