Aiming for Cheerful Mornings before School
“Good morning to you, good morning to you!” I dance into my kids’ rooms while turning on soft-lit lamps and turn off their sound machines. I greet them each with a kiss and a hug, immediately followed by, “I am so happy to see you this morning! I missed you all night!” If I’m not running behind, I spend a few minutes snuggling in those warm covers while petting their hair or rubbing their backs. If we’re a little more rushed, I continue singing and frolicking around their rooms, making sure school clothes are easily-accessible (and appropriate), and I might even go ahead and put toothpaste on their toothbrushes. Child #1 typically smiles as she makes her way to the sink. Child #2 opts for a more physical approach: I pull him out of the bed by his ankles as he lets out the sweetest giggles. Sometimes I up my game and come up with a scenario such as, “Arrrr, Matey! The pirates planted dynamite here! Get off the ship before it explodes!” It has never NOT worked!
Do I always feel like putting on my Mary Poppins façade when I personally received less-than-restful sleep or know that we are in a time crunch to get to school and work on time? Definitely not! But, I have realized that as their mom, I am the thermostat of the home. The “temperature” of this house is up to me, and I am going to aim for success with a goofy smile on my face (even if it’s fake). To me, success in this area means kids who are starting their day feeling loved and wanted. The cherry on top is when they leave the house in good moods, too! This happens most days around here, but admittedly, not every day.
Once my bed-head buddies have brushed their teeth, gotten dressed, and are headed downstairs for breakfast, I typically call for backup from one of our furry friends – our purring cat or our tail-wagging dog. “Oh, you’re SO excited to see your girl?! Have you missed your boy as much as I have?! You only get that look on your face when you see them!” These statements communicate to my kids (again) that they are loved, wanted, and appreciated by everyone, even the family pets.
At school drop-off, we will hold hands while Mom (or Dad) says a quick prayer – “Lord, we love You. We thank You for this family you put us in. We thank You for our wonderful school and teachers. We pray You keep us safe and compassionate today. Give us joy, peace, and patience, and help us grow in wisdom and understanding. We pray You bless all the staff and all the families represented here today. We thank You for your holy protection and goodness. May everyone get back safely with their families this evening, and give You all the glory.” Typically we then hear the signal to let out the kids from the cars, and all family members in the car put their hands in, and give a, “1-2-3 Team Thach!” As the kids are shutting doors, I shout one last “I love you! Have a great day!”
Do you know what I find rings true? Proverbs 17:22 reads, “A cheerful heart is like good medicine. . .” Even though it takes energy and effort to make mornings more cheerful, I become more energized and fulfilled myself. I go to work knowing that they feel safe. They know they are loved. They feel confident. They know I am on their team. Parent-child connection sprinkled with laughter is a recipe for a better day!
Share with us! What are some ways you make school mornings easier or more fun?
