8 Things Every Kid Should Experience
We all want to give our kids the richest childhood experience.
When I took my kids to the snow for the very first time a few weeks ago, their sheer delight and enthusiasm made me equal parts happy and sad. Happy because I have never, ever seen them happier and sad because I hadn't allowed them to experience it sooner.
When I think back on my own childhood, I have treasured memories of Girl Scout camp, hunting for sea shells on the beach, horseback riding, and yes, even those sucky piano lessons. The good, the bad, and the totally awesome childhood experiences made me the woman and mom that I am today.
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There are so many rich experiences to share with our children and the best part is, they don't have to cost a lot of money. Let's check out the 8 things every kid should experience. Please feel free to offer your suggestions in the comments below!
1. Being part of a team
"The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime."
- Babe Ruth
Teamwork, the sweet taste of victory, and the bitterness of defeat are just a few of valuable lessons children can learn from team sports.
2. Camping
"The human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hand of man."
- Author Unknown
Every child deserves the chance to experience nature in its purest form. From hiking and roasting marshmallows, to sleeping under the stars - camping is the stuff of cherished childhood memories.
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3. Chores
"All life demands struggle. Those who have everything given to them become lazy, selfish, and insensitive to the real values of life. The very striving and hard work that we so constantly try to avoid is the major building block in the person we are today."
- Ralph Ransom
A little hard work never hurt anybody. Besides, why should Mom and Dad have all the fun?
4. Snow
"A snowball in the face is surely the perfect beginning to a lasting friendship."
- Markus Zusak
Snow is an experience to remember. Only children can block out the cold and see the beauty of snow for what it really is - a soft place to land.
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5. Farm life
"Growing up on a dairy farm, you certainly learn discipline and a commitment to purpose."
- Mike Johanns
Every child should witness the hard work and dedication that goes into farm life. Oh, and the smell of cows is a memory they won't soon forget.
6. A lemonade stand
"Once you decide to work for yourself, you never go back to work for somebody else."
- Alan Sugar
Encourage your young entrepreneur at every possible opportunity. Greatness surely awaits those with the fortitude to succeed.
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7. Flying a kite
"Don't be afraid of opposition. Remember, a kite rises against, not with the wind."
- Hamilton Wright Mabie
Is there anything more perfect than flying a kite on a beautiful day? Didn't think so. Any excuse to look up towards the heavens is good enough for me.
8. Bowling
"Having children is like having a bowling alley installed in your brain."
- Martin Mull
Bowling is like a metaphor for life, there are lessons to be learned from the gutter.
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- By Lori Garcia
Follow Lori on Babble
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