Since I am a mother of two young toddlers, my “mommy” time (or their nap time) is something I cherish. I typically use my “mommy” time to do laundry or to clean the kitchen. Or I use it to walk endlessly on the treadmill in an effort to shed my beloved mommy “muffin top.” Not that these are faulty or unimportant

but…

where I place them on my priority list, is a problem.

There will always be more “to do.”

I now realize that there will always be more laundry to fold, dishes to clean and toys to pick up. Trying to keep up consumes my “mommy” time and often interrupts my playtime with Jackson and Katie. I am finding that it is difficult to clean with a child clinging to you. So I have to choose the dirty pan or Jackson? Can you relate?

Finding freedom from the “to do” list.

God had revealed to me that when I focus on what I didn’t get done, I become a stress monster and annoyed when my precious babies interrupt what I need to “accomplish.” This is not good fellow mommy! As I trust God to help me change, He is allowing me to find freedom from the need to “do.” I am grateful and so are my children.

The 3 blessings of playtime.

So let me ask you, when was the last time you took time to:

Imagine? When was the last time you were an astronaut, or Sleeping Beauty? To pretend you were in the middle of a jungle or having tea with Queen Elizabeth II? When was the last time you took time to laugh mommy? To just be goofy for a second? You might actually find yourself smiling in the middle of never ending timeouts…

Sing? If you ever sit by me at church, you’ll agree that I am not gifted in this area. Truth is: my kids do not care what I sound like (at least at this age anyways), and neither does my Heavenly Father. In fact, singing children’s songs is a terrific way to lift your spirit! It is hard to remain stressed out while singing “Jesus Loves Me” or “Little Bunny Foo Foo” isn’t it?

Witness? I cherish witnessing the milestones that happen in Jackson and Katie lives. I was in awe when I saw Jackson build his first block tower. Speechless when Katie discovered her shadow. Excited when I witnessed them take their first steps. Playtime is when I watch them learn and hear them giggle. (and yes, watch them fight too — but that is another post for another day)

Be encouraged if you struggle in this same way. Why don’t we put our dishtowels down and enjoy coloring and tea parties instead? Tomorrow is a new day. Let’s get ready to play!

Lord, I thank you for my children. I thank you for the home and possessions you have blessed our family with. Help me to know how to spend my time wisely. If there is any annoyance or misplaced priorities within my heart, please forgive me and direct me. Help me to cherish this time with my children and to raise them in a way honoring to you. Amen.

Are your kids still napping?

Take a few more minutes to reflect on the following:

In Ephesians 5:15-17 the Apostle Paul writes:

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

~What do you think God’s will is for you as a mother? Will you share with us a particular verse that God used to teach you this?

~Reflect on how you are choosing to spend your days. Are you making the most of the time you have with your children? Is there a task you need to put on hold in order to spend more time with your son or daughter?

~Are there any other blessings of playtime that you have experienced?

 

*This article was originally written/published by the author under the title “Don’t Forget to Play.”