Chocolate Milk and Barbeque, Rocks in the Creek, "Hungry, Hungry Hippo", and Toys in the Closet

Mack and Macy are nine and six, respectively. They’ve been drinking from a regular cup or glass for several years now, but when they come to my house they still want to drink their chocolate milk from the sippy cups they had when they were toddlers. They also expect Grandpa to fix his yummy barbeque chicken, multiple games of “Uno”, craft projects, and a trip to the candy store for jellybeans.

When Laney comes over she heads straight for the bag of dress-up clothes. She has her sights set on a specific ‘dress’ and wastes no time in putting it on. She also expects the dollhouse to come out of the closet.

For Reuben it’s the “Mr. Grinch” book, throwing rocks in the creek with Grandpa, and following me around asking, “Whatcha doin’, Nanna?”. Peanut butter toast and chocolate milk for breakfast are also a must, along with riding his bike alongside us while we take a walk.

Essie’s trips to Nanna and Grandpa’s house wouldn’t be right in her eyes if I didn't push her in the stroller on a long walk, Fruit Loops and chocolate milk for breakfast, reading “Toad on the Road”, playing “Hungry, Hungry Hippo” and eating popcorn popped in the Snoopy doghouse popper.

Landrey and JoJo are too little to have their ‘things’…yet. All in good time, though, I’m sure they will. And if you’ve been paying attention, you know there’s a very good chance chocolate milk will be involved. J

What it is with my kiddos and chocolate milk??

But the bigger question I have to ask is, what are these ‘things’ the kids have?

In a word…these things are expectations. Each of our grandkids has certain expectations of the way things should be when they come to Nanna and Grandpas. These expectations are their safety-nets and comfort zones. They are part of what makes their visits complete and special in their hearts and minds.

But how would they feel if these things weren’t there….

As parents we need to be aware of our children’s (and grandchildren’s) need for their expectations to be met. They need to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will be there for them…always.

They need to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your home will always be a safe place for them to ‘land’.

They need to know that they can always count on you to be consistent in your responses to their behavior, your disciplinary measures, your expectations and guidelines, and of course, your unconditional love.

Can they? Are you meeting their expectations?

Love,

Momma D
                            Copyright 2017 Darla Noble. No part of this can be used without permission from the author.