I wrote this piece a long time ago for the now-defunct blog Being Savvy Los Angeles. It bears repeating. Happy Mother’s Day!
1. Personal trainer: I have enlisted my child to count to 30 for each stretch I have to hold. I got a new exercise mat (given to me to test by the lovely folks at G2) and I have committed to doing the stretches once a day for at least a week to see how good it makes me feel. My kids like hopping on me while I do floor stretches, so giving them the task of counting distracts them. Kyle, the 4 year old, is relentless, and will not let me stop before 30.
2. GPS: Okay, he doesn’t come with directional satellite, but he does enjoy repeating the directions that the GPS unit barks out when you are supposed to make a turn. His self-appointed role as direction repeater keeps him occupied on long car trips. “Dad, in two-tenths of a mile, turn left, okay?” Bonus!
3. Personal shopper: When you take him to the store, your preschooler can help you find items on your list (in close proximity). Again, it gives him something to do and you get assistance to get your shopping done faster.
4. Life coach: Nothing like the incessant “Mom! Come look at this! Mom! Mom! Mom! Etc!” to get you the heck out of that desk chair and into life. When I catch myself saying “As soon as I’m done with this post, honey,” I know I’m on blogger overload and it would be good for all of us for me to take a break.
5. Housekeeper: For some reason, my boys love sweeping. They don’t do a very good job, but while they take joy in this task, I encourage them to sweep away! Be careful with this idea – they might start spilling things just so they can sweep!
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