My Kiwi Kids

When I brought Rose to her friend’s house for a birthday party, she ran straight in and followed a couple of other excited kids who were running around the house, exploring the place. The Mum said I’m welcome to stay or if I had something to do, I can leave Rose as well. Then Rose rushed back, almost bumping into me. She stopped to give me a hug then said “Bye Mum!”

So I left her there, knowing pretty well what the kids are likely to do and have for the party. I remember one parent telling me (on another birthday party) during pick up, saying “He’s had fun and is all sugared up.” It was in one of the birthday parties that Max went to. It makes me think that’s the recipe for success: lots of playtime and plenty of sweets!

When my kids were younger, I remember them looking for toys at a house with no kids. I think they assumed that even if you’re an adult, you’d still have toys lying around the house.

I find myself amazed with how my children find it to be a natural thing to be able to play with other kids. (That’s because I’m terribly shy as a kid!) At the playground, they end up talking to and playing with other kids who they just met. While observing them, it’s as if they know each other from school. Funny though that Max wouldn’t initially bother with asking their names. So when asked, he’d just give a shrug and say that he doesn’t know who he was playing with. As he got older though, he’s learned to ask for the name at least. Sometimes, he’d find out which school or club they go to. Rose is the same.

Since my children started going to Primary school, our lives completely changed and our calendar is now in sync with the school calendar. Like other families, we book our family holidays during school holidays. I rely on school holiday programs where they offer free or discounted activities for families with children. It's normal to see fathers or grandparents (not just mothers) to be pushing a pram, or walking the kids around the neighbourhood, and to the park. There are events and venues that are especially catered for families with kids, especially during the school holidays. Or maybe it’s coz I’m always on a lookout for events/ places where I can bring the kids.

My kids (now aged 7 and 9) also understand the concept of gay relationships. They would ask me with the curiosity and innocence of a child. I simply replied matter-of-fact that it happens and it's ok. I was asked by Rose one day if a man can marry another man, same with a woman. I said yes, but that's only in New Zealand. Then she said (in a matter-of-fact tone) that her classmate's Mom is married to another woman. 

As the kids grow, I do pick up useful insights and practical tips from fellow parents, especially from my colleagues whose kids are much older. We do take the opportunity for the kids to have access to a variety of things to help expand their skills and experience. It’s great to see the kids enjoying themselves being kids, being aware of the rich diversity around them. I’m hoping they’d carry on with their endless imaginative play, their yearning for outdoor play, be immersed with books, making comic strips or writing stories. Everyday is always an adventure with them.