Hope for the 2nd Half: Ariana Spaulding

At the beginning of the summer when I (Sharon) reached out to several SLOCA parents asking them if they would contribute to the blog this summer, I was nervous that no one would respond and/or no one would have anything to say about the theme I was envisioning. However, each week as the content flows into my inbox from those brave souls that said “yes”, I am bowled over with their thoughtful reflections, variety of perspective, and most of all, encouraging words of hope. Today is no different, may you be inspired and encouraged by SLOCA mom, Ariana Spaulding’s Hope for the 2nd Half.

I know these last few months have been incredibly trying for all of our children. Despite my kids being extremely resilient, hope has dwindled and most days are rated fair at best. I have drained myself trying to keep their spirits up, engaging them in meaningful and enriching conversations and activities, and worrying myself to the point of fatigue as I watch them struggle to adapt. 

I know I’m not alone as all of us parents have BIG feelings for our children and care for their mental and physical well being, but I had to come to the realization that it is not selfish to ask the question, “But what about me? What about my own struggle for hope?” I want to be hopeful and thriving also (insert whiny voice here).

I spent some time reflecting on what feels lost when I sense myself running on hope fumes. Is it something I have control over or have the power to get back? 

It came down to one word: PLAY

I came to the conclusion that I have too much “adulting” in my life. I NEED MORE PLAY! I have heard it said over and over that hope requires reflection and remembering the good things in life. Well, I decided to reflect on some of my simple childhood play activities in the hopes that my reflection could be my pursuit. I started with a list. What were my favorite simple childhood activities? I will not share my entire list (too embarrassing), but just to give you an idea of how simple I tried to make things, it included activities such as hopscotch, choreograph a dance routine to my favorite 80’s hits, play dress up, do one of my daughter’s craft kits, Perler beads, make a cootie catcher, prank call someone, collect rocks/shells at the beach, bead sorting, build a fort, read a Judy Blume book, and avoid sidewalk cracks on a walk. Though I could involve my kids in most of my list, I actually decided that I needed to do most of these activities solo. That way it was directed by me and pursued by me.

In addition to pursuing my silly solo summer bucket list, I also want to strive to be more mindful of “play” on our family outings. I have a tendency to be a spectator. At the beach, I am the “read a book from my comfy beach chair while my kids are in the water” type. I am determined to be more part of the action. Ask my kids to bury me in the sand, or boogie board and freeze alongside them. Climb a tree while we are hiking, or cannonball into the pool.

For many of you, play comes easily and you have not lost the richness and pleasure that comes from fun childhood activities. But if you need more play in your life like me, I encourage you to make your own list and see how checking off the fun helps you. It could just make you feel silly (we could all use more silliness), and it could even fill you with hope to push through these challenging times with intention and joy.

If you feel inclined, please comment below with some play activities you suggest. What were some of your childhood favorites?

Thank you, Ariana! We all need to be reminded that play is not just for kids! What will you do this summer to incorporate more play in your days? Share with us!