Dan G 9/8/24 Dan G 9/8/24

Unacknowledged Labors

There’s lots we do for our kids without an expectation of acknowledgement or gratitude. Tell them - not to make them feel bad - but so that they know why you gladly do it anyway.

Dan G 9/1/24 Dan G 9/1/24

Recount a Tantrum

Childhood isn't all puppies and sunflowers. So keep things real: recount a temper tantrum where tears were shed, and things were said. (Bonus points if puppies and/or sunflowers figure into your story!)

Dan G 8/25/24 Dan G 8/25/24

Weekly Rhythms

When the weeks tick by so fast, and surviving one can feel like such an accomplishment, it’s no wonder we don’t pay much attention to their shape. So, describe your kid’s daily and weekly rhythms.

Dan G 8/15/24 Dan G 8/15/24

Slow Transitions

Some changes happen all at once, while others, by degrees over time. By definition, the slow transitions are harder to notice, but no less valuable to write about (even if it takes a bit of practice).

Dan G 8/7/24 Dan G 8/7/24

Before, During and After

It might seem intuitive to only wait until an event has passed to write about it, but even a quick note leading up to the event, or during it, evoke the memory in a different light.

Dan G 8/6/24 Dan G 8/6/24

Record their voices

Record your kids’ voices as they talk about important things, or wholly unimportant things. You’ll be surprised at what the subtraction of the visual element can add.

Dan G 7/26/24 Dan G 7/26/24

Personal precepts

Encourage them to define a rule to live by, and check in every so often on how it’s evolved.

Dan G 7/19/24 Dan G 7/19/24

Mispronunciations

Jot down an amusing mispronunciation of a word or phrase. Even better, capture it as audio. There will be plenty of time later to correct them. For now, just enjoy it.