Since having kids, we have found ourselves becoming more rigid and rule oriented. We are slaves to routine and for the most part that’s a good thing because kids, especially kids with trauma, need structure to develop. They need organization to feel secure, safe and prepared to overcome the next obstacle.

Kids also need spontaneity and adventure. I feel like we as parents often fear that spontaneity will lead to mayhem, trouble, and problems with boundaries. We end up avoiding unplanned moments altogether because it’s just easier. Because we will avoid having to enforce a tough boundary or embarrassment from a child reacting negatively…

Enough organization, we need some fun. So tonight we skipped the normal dinner and evening routine and took the kids to the movies. We let them choose the movie (Pokémon) and then filled them with sugary junky treats and bottomless popcorn. They stayed up way past their bedtime and it was great fun to see them experience a little late night fun on a school night. There was no mayhem, there was no fighting, there was no destruction or embarrassment. They giggled and smiled and felt so much joy. And the best part? When we got home around 10pm (which is about 2 hours past their bedtime), everyone slipped right back into routine and went to bed without an episode. It was divine. (We’ll see tomorrrow morning how diving things are… lol)

This week I encourage you to do something fun and unplanned. It doesn’t have to require money either. It could be attending a free community event or taking a hike or packing a picnic and going to a nearby park. Free yourself of routine and the endless list of to-dos and do something fun!