Hungry Hippo

Emersen is feeding herself these days. Not every meal, not every food. But she does normally eat her oatmeal in the morning by herself. We've also started sitting her in a regular chair with a plate full of food. She thinks she's big stuff when given her very own plate!

Emersen has finally developed into a "normal" child - she actually ate pizza the other day. We've given it to her just to try before and she didn't like it. This time she ate it. Along with her beloved lima beans. Pizza will be a treat for her, not a staple. That's how it was when I was growing up too. My mom limited me on the number of soft drinks I could have as well. And made me eat breakfast. 

So mean. I'm going to be just like her on this. 

Emersen has impressed me with her obedience lately. We mostly just give her instructions for what we expect, knowing that it takes time with a toddler but it's worked. We started sign language young and it took awhile for her to pick it up. Same with being on a schedule for naps, etc. But we ask Em if she's ready for a nap or bed and she answers us if she is ready. Today she ran to the steps, then to her bed when my mom asked her. Sometimes she'll answer us affirmative if she needs a new diaper or has pooped. This encourages me regarding potty training - it's hard to tell when they're going to be ready.

I'm just constantly reminded of several things, through experiences with friends/family/kids/parents/church/God/volunteering/working:

1. Kids come out "blank" - you have to teach them how to act, what is expected and what is okay/safe for them right now (or what they're not ready to handle). They don't know these things on their own.

2. You do NOT have to teach them how to be mischievous and rebellious (thanks Adam and Eve). God tells us in His word what things we should do (or not do) in our own best interest. And we're to model this for our children. 

3. One of my pastor's says that if the people you lead are confused about expectations or don't know what is going on, it's not THEIR fault, it's the leader's fault. It is a leader's responsibility to fully and clearly explain expectations, rules, boundaries, and processes. And it's mom/dad/guardian/adult's responsibility to lead your children. 

4. Good thing kids are cute, eh?