Slowing Down Childhood
In the hustle of daily life, the special moments of our kids' early years can sometimes slip away too fast.
As parents, we all wish to slow things down and truly soak in the magic of childhood.
We’ve all felt it. Either with our own kids, or with children in our extended family webs.
One day their little round face is staring up at you while they placidly shove sand in their mouth, and then boom! The next time you see them, they’re talking about the waves they surfed that morning and that soft baby chub has disappeared to reveal long, strong limbs ready to take on the world.
All too fast, our children become teenagers and young adults, and it can leave us feeling robbed. Where did our babies go? And we grieve, knowing those days are now nothing more than a memory.
Like sands through an hourglass…
So are the days of our lives. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist)
It’s cliche, but it’s true - every week, every month, precious opportunities to savour time with our kids are slipping through our fingers. We can’t stop it from happening, but what we can do is be present in the small moments, and do our best to turn those moments into memories of love and connection.
Did you know that around age 12, there's a significant developmental shift in childhood?
Occasionally it happens even earlier, and it brings with it a significant change in family dynamics. Summers take on a different vibe, and gradually, parents and siblings become more of a backdrop, playing a less central role in the family puzzle as friends and peers become more important in our tweens’ lives.
In fact, by the time kids reach 12, about 75% of the time we share with them throughout their entire childhood has already unfolded.
Eeep!
Mission impossible?
Is it even possible to slow down childhood? Well, they say time is an illusion… but our kids keep eating and waking up taller everyday, so it must be real!
What if we can create the illusion of slowing down time by:
- slowing down our nervous systems,
-prioritising slow days without outcomes, and
-taking our families to places where the hustle and bustle fall away and the small moments come into sharper focus?
Incorporating weekly outdoor time into our schedule ensures that all our families’ needs are fulfilled - and there’s nothing like time in the wild to stretch time and make days feel like weeks.
Outdoors, kids can expend their energy, we can strengthen our family bonds, and we can fully enjoy the summer weeks without wishing them away.
When children spend extended periods outdoors, they become more engaged, reflective, serene, and happy – in other words, they don't become a source of chaos!
For those with children under 12, it's essential to recognise that this phase represents the primary chunk of time you'll share with them in your lifetime. Consider setting some goals, maybe even create a bucket list, and make the most of the precious time you have together!
slowing down at forest school
Forest school is one of those places where the hectic hustle of modern life drops away, as the wild becomes a backdrop for creating beautiful memories with your little ones.
Here at Wildlings, we’re experts at focusing on the small things: the tiny wonders of the natural world, and the small wins of our little Wildlings as they grow and develop.
Check out our quick list of how forest school can help you slow down childhood this summer:
1. Cherishing the Simplicity
Nestled in the wild places of South-east Queensland, our Forest School program provides a space for kids to be kids. Away from screens and schedules, they can explore, play, and let their imaginations run wild. Here, the simplicity of childhood takes centre stage, and you can witness the joy that comes from discovering the wonders of the natural world.
2. Capturing Aussie Adventures
From climbing over rocks to spotting native wildlife, each day at forest school is an Aussie adventure waiting to happen. Join your kids as they conquer small challenges, like navigating a trail or identifying native trees. These are the moments that make childhood memorable, and here in the bush, time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every little triumph.
3. Nature Traditions
Summer in Australia brings a unique vibrancy to the bush, and our Forest School program invites you to establish traditions that celebrate the season. Whether it's a weekly bushwalk, a special bushcraft activity, or a fun water play day, these traditions connect your family to the beauty of Australian nature and create lasting memories.
4. Embracing the Outdoors
Our summer forest school is a haven for families looking to unplug and connect with each other in the great outdoors. The gentle rustle of gum leaves, the warmth of the sun on your skin – these sensory experiences ground you in the present moment. Here, amidst the eucalyptus-scented air, you can step away from the rush of daily life and truly embrace the simple joys of being with your kids.
As parents, we know the importance of slowing down and savoring the beauty of childhood. Our summer forest school programs offer the perfect opportunity to do just that. Join us in the in the wild places of South-east Queensland, where time seems to take a backseat, and the simple pleasures of childhood come to life. Let's create lasting memories together – because sometimes, the best way to make time stand still is to share it with the ones you love in the beauty of the Australian outdoors.
Head to our bookings page to learn more about our programs and secure your spot today!
Written by Ellen Nesbitt. Ellen is a nature play advocate and creative writer with a passion for helping families connect with the outdoors. She is dedicated to exploring ways to nurture children's creativity, independence, wellbeing and love for nature.