Well, it’s November. The calendar is filling up, and we know the holiday season is right around the corner. Our to-do lists are growing longer, and we know there is going to be a lot to do. But before we get caught up in all of the preparations, let’s enjoy the last couple of weeks before the real rush sets in. The first part of November can be a quieter time, and it’s a perfect time for us to slow down a little. Let’s look at some ways to savor slow moments before the holiday rush sets in.
The Gift of Slowness
Our preschoolers live in the moment in a way that we adults often forget how to do. They stop to admire a leaf or a rock, and they ask for just one more story. When we invite them to bake with us, we know it will take twice as long. This slowness can be frustrating, but these slower times bring us back to what really does matter. When we allow for the slowness, it opens the door for connection, curiosity, and fun.
Slowing down doesn’t mean we stop doing the things that must be done. It just means we choose to be present, even if that means we choose specific times to be present in what we do with our little ones. Sometimes, the dishes can wait for five minutes while we enjoy some time together. Or maybe we plan some extra time into our errands so we can have some fun. And let’s make sure there is always time to stop for a good snuggle with our children.
Little Ways to Slow Down This Season
So in our effort to savor slow moments before the holiday rush, here are a few simple ideas to help you slow down.
Start your mornings gently
Some of us have work to get to or kids to drop off, or both. The morning rush is a reality for many of us. At the same time, there are a few easy things we can do to help even a busy morning feel more gentle.
For example, what about keeping the lights low and lighting a candle for the breakfast table? Or we could play some peaceful music. If you all get to sit together for breakfast, that’s a great time to go around and state something you’re each thankful for. Let’s see if we can set the tone for a peaceful morning, even if we need to get going at the same time.
Take a walk
If your morning allows time for a walk, try to take a “noticing walk” with your preschooler. This time of year is perfect for crunching leaves, different colors, and maybe even some migrating birds. Put on some layers and see what you and your little one can notice this November. A walk is a good way to savor slow moments before the holidays set in. And a noticing walk is a great time to work on some of our descriptive signs. Maybe you could work on some color signs or some nature signs.
Find a cozy time
As the weather gets more chilly, it’s a good time to find ways to stay cozy together. What kid wouldn’t enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate in the afternoon? Maybe we could make time for a short story or some coloring before dinner. Or stories and coloring might work better after dinner. Either way, finding a way to spend some quiet, cozy time together can be a nice comfort for our kids as the month gets busier. We’d love for you to let My Signing Time be a part of this too!
Look for unscheduled times
As we look at the next couple of weeks, let’s notice the times we have free, and let’s protect those times as good times to savor slow moments before the holidays and their craziness. Our kids will appreciate these breaks from the busy schedules, even if all you do is hang out at home. Sometimes these unplanned times create some really special memories.
When Life Feels Rushed Anyway
Even with the best intentions, some days will still feel hectic, and that’s OK. Choosing to savor slow moments doesn’t mean it always will work out. Let’s just be sure to get back to some calm times when we can.
Instead of a walk, let’s just step outside for a moment of fresh air. Instead of a morning playlist, let’s play one favorite song. And let’s watch for the times we can do more to really savor slow moments.
Our kids learn by watching us, so let’s show them it’s OK to slow down, to rest, and to enjoy simple moments. It’s actually a lifelong skill that can help them as they grow up and set their own routines.
This year’s holidays will come whether we do everything we wanted to do or not. But what our kids will remember is how it felt to be together. So let’s savor all the moments we can together. And hopefully you can find a way to savor slow moments before the holiday rush, and maybe even carry some calm into the holidays.