I often get asked about the amount of crafting that takes place in our home. People gaze at our colorfully decorated walls and inquire, “But don’t you…?” or “Isn’t it…?” or “Doesn’t it make you want to…?” The answer to most of these inquiries is an emphatic yes. A resounding YES.
It can be incredibly exasperating when you pour your heart into preparing a fantastic art project, hoping for a joyful afternoon of creativity, only to have the kids breeze through it in mere moments, instantly asking what’s next.
It’s undeniably frustrating when someone accidentally tips over the water cup while painting, resulting in a splash of paint water across the craft table, ruining another child’s masterpiece, and then you’re left managing both the mess and the ensuing tears.
It’s even more challenging when the little ones start bickering over who gets to use the exact same materials at the same time, with the clock ticking down on their creative endeavors.
And of course, there are the moments when kids feel compelled to use every single art supply in sight, despite your countless reminders to use things sparingly. Just when you think you’re almost done, you find yourself out of glue for the googly eyes you wanted to add to your mermaid.
And let’s not forget the time an innocent-looking toddler decided that art time was NOW, spilling an entire box of glitter across the living room furniture.
So yes, to all those questions of “But don’t you…?” and “Doesn’t it make you want to…?”—the answer is a heart-felt YES. Yet, I still choose to craft with my kids, frustrations and all. The reason? A single piece of their artwork can wipe away all the crafting annoyances that occur along the way. Just take a look at this painting created by my little glitter enthusiast:
This is the recognition I have been yearning for. That’s me. I am present right there, underneath that vibrant pink swirl.
So, despite the chaos, I continue to create art with my children.
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