This solitude has allowed me to step back and observe my children. I mean really study them. I am fascinated by their individuality, by their developing characters. I have learned how much they are seeking their role. Nobody wants to be told what to do, how to be. That feels adversarial. What works best for us is honest conversation about feelings, wishes and goals. Checking in frequently is important to prevent frustrations and misunderstandings which may be expressed as tantrums or defiance.
The weather has turned much warmer. We can finally pack away winter jackets and gloves! It seems to have been unusually cold which has likely benefited social distancing. Enormous time spent at home and now springlike temperatures sparked my kids’ interest to refresh our living space. Given that we are all in the same boat, I agreed to a change that they can have a hand in, and not just in their rooms.
My daughter is very artistic with a keen eye for beauty. She is also drawn to anything cozy and comfortable. So I allowed her to explore all that and transform our living space to her liking. And I have to say, her ideas for placing furniture and decor are much better than mine! She herself was so overjoyed with the results that she took her friends for an immediate virtual tour.
End of week seven. Fourteen days of no new COVID-19 cases here, all active cases we had have recovered. Watching Snowbirds fly over our city…a show of respect.
Single parenting during COVID-19 pandemic 