FOMO, taking a break, and the power of calm

If there is one thing we all wonder about as parents from time to time is whether we are doing enough. And if there is one thing we don’t want as parents, it is for our children to miss out! But sometimes, our desire to make the most of life for our children may actually not be that helpful for them (and as a result, us!). Whether it be dance, music, sport, art classes, or birthdays or multiple playdates, there are an endless number of activities we can organise. However, sometimes, ‘doing nothing’, is the most powerful thing we can do for them. Here’s why.

Children, much like adults, need downtime. They are growing and learning so much day-to-day that for effective development, they need some calm. Yet, fostering this can feel a little odd. It is totally natural to feel like our kids need stimulation, to learn something, or to get a new experience in such a vibrant world full of possibilities. And they do need these things. Yet, time at home, time to relax, and time to just be themselves with you, may actually be the most powerful thing you can give them. As an adult, we know when we just need to do nothing: to not work, not go to the gym, or not go out for a dinner with friends. We can say no, I need some time at home today. But for kids, they need us to help them in that process.

The desire to do more and more for our children is grounded in an incredibly important set of feelings. Those of love and care, and wanting them to be fulfilled and happy. However, happiness can also come from the most simple of things, and this may be doing nothing. Of course, it is not really doing nothing, rather, it is letting them enjoy the calm and rejuvenating experience of not doing too much, playing at home and doing simple day-to-day stuff, and having the time and space to check in with them about their emotional wellbeing. So, shake off the FOMO and enjoy that downtime with your children, hopefully with a cup or two of tea for you.