By Patty E.

At least 15 years ago, David Elkind, a renowned professor at Tufts University wrote a book titled, The Hurried Child.  It caused quite a stir for both parents as well as educators. Much of what he was saying was and is true. A criticism was that he used scare tactics.

The premise of the book was that children are rushed through childhood, being deprived of really experiencing it in a natural way and it has had some harmful results.

At the preschool, we approach planning program based on the developmental stage of each child.

We also take care to do careful observations and understand the internal motivations of the children and pull what they are enjoying into the plan. If you watch your child carefully, you will know them.  I had several discussions with parents since the break and they all remarked on having the time to really just be with their child and have time to really observe their child. They noticed new things about their children, enjoyed playtime and everyday errands. Those times are precious.

What ultimately sustains us as adults, are our positive experiences from childhood. A strong foundation is always important in supporting our challenges as adults. From having read Elkind and having raised my own sons, slowing it down and understanding where they are in their development is very important.

Of course, it is impossible to have that all the time in the world as it is today. Since it is a fairly busy schedule for most of you, try to schedule down time into your evenings and weekends to just be with your child and not over-schedule him or her. Having scheduled time with you is the best.  The result will ultimately be sustaining for your child in the future.