Social Calendars

We are typically that family that cherishes our quiet Friday night. There is no need to rush around. We have a glass of wine, rent a movie the whole family wants to see, or during the past fall, take advantage of all the fun activities the community and school has to offer.  Our oldest started 1^st grade and if she asked if we could go to an event, my husband and I would look at each other and say, “why not?”  So this past quarter, we have had a social calendar that our 1^st grader controlled.

We headed out to the high school football game. We cheered our team on while learning that our opponent happened to be the best team in the area and our home team was actually not so good. But we did our best to explain to the girls what was happening and continue to cheer. As you guessed, I was more concerned with the cheerleading routines and how it was possible that the food hut ran out of pom-poms for purchase on spirit night.

We attended the Night of the Arts, where the elementary teachers showcased their talents.  It was actually a great night!  The girls ran into some friends and enjoyed dancing in the front row, as if we were at a famous performer’s concert.   Jarrod and I appreciated the effort of the teachers playing all their musical instruments as the school played a slide show of student art work. The finale was a Beatles tribute where the whole auditorium sang along. My favorite part though was Deanna falling asleep in my arms. Not sure how, it was so loud with everyone singing and cheering but I welcomed the chance to soak in some cuddles. As you can imagine, close to becoming a 5 year old, these moments are few and far between.

My favorite Friday night of all that was planned by our 1^st grader was not from a school flyer.  It was a fancy candle light dinner for four served right in our dining room. She and her sister wore fancy dresses. I was instructed to wear a nice dress, heels and makeup, while Jarrod was asked to wear a sport jacket.  We played jazz music and dinner was served on the nice china.  Apps were served and enjoyed by all: nuts, cheez-its and goldfish because we’ve been informed that they are very different, along with fruit and cheese.  The night was not complete without dancing in the living room.

It is amazing the family bonding that happens when you just allow the children to take over some control, even if it is just planning Friday nights.   You could see the difference as we were all headed to bed on any given Friday night – it was not sheer exhaustion but joy from a fun family night.

I encourage you to allow your children to make the plans, even if you had a long week and you just want to get home and sneak into your pjs.  I assure you, your children will thank you and the memories will not be forgotten.