Cleaning the tub

While reflecting on the growth of my oldest child, I am struck by the simple fact that children are always doing the absolute very best they are capable to doing. This is a not to commonly held belief of main stream parents. I remember thinking it was was particularly insightful the first time I read it. It immediately resonated with me as an idea. However, as I see the natural changes in my eldest daughter, I am blown away by the simple concept. It actually saddens me to think of how often we expect children to be able to do something that is beyond their capabilities. As ridiculous as it sounds, they just can't do something until they can. One example was brought to my attention this evening. My children enjoyed a long and entertaining bath together until Audrey decided she had been splashed enough and wanted to exit the tub. I dried her off as she checked out her reflection in the mirror. I finished dressing her and turned to help her sister get out as well. I helped Morgan into her pjs and brushed her hair. I turned my back to her to begin cleaning up the toys that I assumed were still strew all over the tub and almost fell over. The bathtub was spotless. Morgan had already stored all of the toys away in the basket and placed it on the side. As I stood staring down at the white porcelain and thanking her for cleaning up, she had already picked up all of the dirty clothes and diaper that had been in a pile behind me. At that moment, I realized that she had never been able to do this before tonight. These simple acts of cleaning up after yourself require more than the ability to lean down and pick something up. They also require a certain amount of foresight, understanding, and cognitive ability. As I notice this change in my daughter, I am reminded to be patient and gentle as I watch my children grow. If I can slow myself and expectations, I will give them the gift of time to allow themselves to unfold into the beautiful beings they are.