It might not seem like it, mama, but you are changing the world. Those small, faithful things you are doing? They are adding up to big things. In this unpredictable world, you are providing a safe haven for young souls, souls that will someday go out and put their mark on the world. There is nothing small about being everything for a young child, nothing insignificant about helping them see that there are good and noble things for which to live. The world is full of broken souls – and you can help build life into a child who will be whole, healthy, and flourishing. What are some anchors that have helped me in my mama journey? Here are just a few…and while they might not be totally new to you, be encouraged that you are doing the right thing by prioritizing them.
Be consistent – Providing rhythms and order for your children is a hard but worthwhile goal to attain to. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but simple things like regular wake times, meals and bedtimes, can go a long way to provide a settledness in their souls. When children know what to expect, they feel like all is well in the world. Posting a simple rhythm chart with what to expect can be helpful to older children, even getting them involved in the plan for the day. Soon they will be able to help with chores and the flow of the day.
Read together – There’s so much research that supports the value of reading together with children – not only are you helping to broaden their vocabulary at a young age, but you are also introducing them to virtue, heroes, big ideas, and friends. And the cuddles are so special! Make a hot drink, pile on cozy blankets, light a candle. These are special times that won’t last forever.
Gather together – Eating meals as a family and with friends teaches so many life skills, largely that life is about more than just me! As we prepare a meal to enjoy together (and involving them is so fun and good!) we are thinking about the needs of others, opening our hearts to each other, and enjoying the blessings God has given us as a family and community. Children learn manners, how to interact socially, how to accept those of different mindsets and value systems, and more.
Simplify – with the holidays coming and the desire to make a special time for your family, it can be hard to not want to do it all. Choosing a few things to focus on, and do well, will go a long way for little people. A frazzled mama is not what they need! Choose a simple advent reading or several picture books, find a couple crafts you all want to try, and make some cookies for a neighbor. In the end, they will remember how you loved them, and if you were a peaceful mama, more than how picture perfect the holiday was.
Find delight in God – Your relationship with our Creator is so much more important than anything else on this list. And yet, as a young mama, it can be hard to carve out the time to be quiet for a few minutes, let alone extended prayer time that you may have had before children. But 10-15 minutes before the children wake, even just sitting up in bed and devoting the day to God, followed by moments throughout the day where you surrender your heart to Him, will truly change the course of your day, weeks, and months. These small moments add up, just as your daily faithfulness to your family does. As I said earlier, you are changing the world, mama. Don’t lose heart in this good work you are doing. We need faithful mamas like you!
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” -Galatians 6:9
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