I’m glad that little things in life thrill my boy. If possible, I would love for him to grow up being appreciative of small things in life and not just by material things. But I find that we as parents might tend to overdo it sometimes by pampering our little ones with things that he or she shows interest in.
For example, if your little one sees something he/she likes at the store and it’s very reasonably priced, do you find yourself finding a good reason to buy it for him/her? Do you find yourself thinking that the toy is educational and therefore a good buy? I find myself in that situation all the time! So maybe it all needs to start with the parents to not lavish the kids with too many material things. I will have to keep a mantra on that! Haha.
Many a time, I find that my little boy doesn’t really need a toy to make him feel happy. All he needs is company and imaginative play. Sure, he does grab a toy or two every now and then but I find that he’s willing to just sit there with us, listen to stories that we tell, sing nursery rhymes together and learning how to do a little of this and that without even picking up any toys and books. Isn’t that great? It’s also time well spent together and it creates a greater bond between parent and child.
Lately Ryan learnt how to hold up his fingers in the shape of a gun by lifting up the thumb and point out his index finger. He was so thrilled at being able to do this and went around to “fire” shots at anything and everyone in sight. You can really see how his little face light up whenever he does it and the rest of us have such a good laugh seeing how he’s so amused and proud of himself. I guess this is one of the small things that makes him happy.
Ryan also enjoys music and singing. Now he’s able to sing more than just the last word of every verse. He’s able to sing the whole verse of some songs. He now even changes the lyrics because he thinks it’s funny. And he can go on singing like this for quite a while as his and our entertainment! Needless to say, we again enjoy times like this. Who says the best things in life have to come with a price tag? 
What are some of the non-material things that thrill your kids and provide great satisfaction to you as a parent? I’m sure you have great stories to share on how your little one has made you the proudest parent of all…come on and flaunt it all here for the rest of us to share in your glory!
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Hmmm, the worst thing is – parents dont spoil, grandma will. haha. if you ask me, grandparents are the culprits. here’s one living proof.
Oh yeah huh, I forgot about the grandparents factor!
I am just like you. I give myself reasons to buy her toys and books although she didn’t ask for them. Can’t help it la
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As for priceless moments, I love it when she will run to me and asked to sit on my lap or next to me and watch the whole Barney video with me. She will then hold my hand and do the claps and we’ll both kick our legs when Barney kicks etc and we’ll both sit there for a good 30 mins without a toy or a book. Love it
I know what you mean…I think most mothers are like that, huh?
So sweet, she will actually sit there with you for so long! That’s really time to treasure. Hmm…btw, are you enjoying Barney as much as she does? Hehehe…
Actually I quite like Barney cds. They can be quite educational. I enjoy watching it the 1st time
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A friend recommended ‘Happy Feet’ cause it has lots of dancing and songs and cute penguins. Her little girl of 2 years loved it. Am going to get that movie and see if Hayley will like it too
It’s so true that if my son is interested in something, I sort of try to overload him with toys, books, etc. about that thing. But, some of the best moments are when we aren’t playing with toys, like going for a walk or swimming. He is ALWAYS talking about swimming, so I think he enjoys that more than anything else.
Amy, good to know you’re enjoying Barney too! Haha. And hope Hayley will also like Happy Feet. If it’s really good, do recommend…maybe I’ll find a reason to get it too
Erin, I think we’re just a bunch of mothers who spoil the kids with varieties and we just can’t help it!
Who knows, maybe your little boy will be a great swimmer in the future!