Ty’s 8 Things Every Child Should Experience!
I saw a list the other day as I was browsing around on the internet. It was a list of things that every American child deserves to experience.
And it got me thinking. What would my list consist of? I had a fantastic upbringing, and got to do a lot of very cool stuff, even though my dad, nor any other male figure, was around very much during my youth. But I love kids, and I am basically still just a 'big' kid - so I figured I'd come up with my list. So, with a little help from my 11 year old son, Isaac, here are my 8 things that every child should experience.
1) Being part of a team - It doesn't matter if it's a little league team, band, choir, Boy or Girl Scouts, whatever. Being part of a team is important. Learning how to work well with others is an incredibly valuable trait, not nearly as common as you might think. Being part of a victory, winning with class - as well as learning how to accept defeat and disappointment - can all be learned by being part of a team. Leadership, responsibility, etc. I could go on forever.
2) Chores - Every child needs to learn about responsibility at some point, and that's where a regular agenda of daily or weekly chores, will be best suited. When I young, I had to; do dishes EVERY night, dust & vacuum the house once a week, do all yardwork (front and back) once a week, and wash all vehicles once a week. My allowance was $10 a week. Needless to say, I quickly learned the value of a buck!
3) Camping/Outdoors - Every child should experience nature in it's purest form, at least once. I am a city boy through and through - but I love camping, fishing, hiking, etc. I didn't think I would, but I do. My boy does, too.
4) Another Country - Growing up in southern California, I would often visit Mexico. Not only was that a great chance to meet new and different people from a completely different culture - but a great and continuing reminder of just how lucky we are to be in THIS country, and of how good we really have it as Americans.
5) Amusement Park - It doesn't matter if it's Disneyland, Valleyfair, or your local fair in town. Kids love amusement parks. Rides, games, yummy food, and mom/dad's money. What could be better. Take lots of pictures.
6) Snow - Its easy to take the snow and cold weather for granted here in Minnesota. But if you are not used to the snow - it is a 'must' to experience. Again, I am from a place where it DOES NOT SNOW! So when I moved here, it took some getting used to. But I love the snow - and kids would play in it all night and day, if you let them. They will get frostbite, though, so don't!
7) Beach - I mean a REAL beach. That means it's attached to an ocean, not a lake. There is nothing like playing in the waves at the beach. Another place, too, where your kid would never leave. Especially if/when they learn to ride a body board, or surf. Parties and bonfires on the beach are the best! Don't let the current pull you out to sea, though.
8) Easter Egg Hunt - It may only happen once a year - but I always loved a good Easter Egg Hunt! I love this time of year - but the whole Easter thing, coloring and hiding eggs - has always been a favorite of mine. Yes, there should be a certain amount of candy and chocolate at Easter time - but the Easter Egg Hunt is always what I consider the 'Main Event' on Easter Sunday.
That's my list - feel free to chime in with yours!