Stock-Up On Essentials: Simple Pleasures
Avoid the Rainbow wheel of boredom!
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Don’t get caught on a never ending rainbow wheel! You know the one no one likes to see on a Macintosh, where you wait and wait for the program to load, or in this case, a solution. Don’t wait for the solution to managing your unexpected pain flare and restless toddler. Be prepared with a treasure trove of fun. For those of us living with chronic pain, we know too well that pain can have a mind of its own- it can hit hard! Some colouring sheets or a new fun set of markers or crayons can go a long way.
Even a stuffed animal or a squishy stress ball, these little treasures can serve as effective distractions when you're trying to accomplish a chore, soothe those unexpected tears, or simply bring a smile to their face when they're feeling crummy. These items can transform a mundane moment into happiness, helping to create a comforting atmosphere in your home. Plus, they remind children that joy can be found in the simplest of things, encouraging creativity and emotional resilience as they navigate the ups and downs of early childhood.
When kids are under the weather, their restlessness often turns into a symphony of fussiness that can make even the most patient parent want to pull their hair out. With their energy levels dipping but their need for stimulation still high, they might bounce from the couch to the floor like a rubber ball, leaving you with a whirlwind of toys and tissues in their wake. A simple cold transforms them into tiny tornadoes of grumbles and whines, making it a challenge to find that sweet spot of comfort. It’s as if they’re caught in a battle between wanting to play and feeling crummy, leaving both their spirits and yours hovering somewhere between sympathy and sheer exasperation.
Here’s my list of ideas for simple delights that you might be able to snag at your local dollar store! I got a special little box that I tuck on high on the top shelf of my child’s closet for those instances when my chronic pain challenges my parenting patience or when life is throwing me too many lemons to make lemonade. I challenge you to come up with something creative for your treasure chest!
Have a sick day treasure chest!
Here are some ideas of simple pleasures to keep on hand just in case you need a little extra help from the magic of something simple.
Board books
Poke-a-dot books FYI: Melissa & Doug an american toy company is owned by Spinster- a Canadian toy company.
Lift-the-flap concept books: Spot by Eric Hill (UK author).
Cut out’s or hole books: Hungry Caterpillar
Block puzzles FYI: B. toys is a Canadian company!
Stickers: These ones are 3D!
Notepad and washable crayon. Even a fun magic marker kit!
Bubbles! Try to get the automatic ones or guns so they don’t have to blow on them- like this!
Vibrant tissue plush toy or get a normal actual tissue box with a fun pattern and let them go to town pulling out tissues
Coloring book
Sensory Bins: you can always make one homemade or replace sand with rice/ cereal. I like this gender neutral one for the farm!
Key chains
Flashlight
Squishy balls/ stress balls/ different textured balls (do not get them if they’re smaller than your palm as they could choke on them!). Here’s one of amazon that would work too!
Small bags or pencil cases (they love to zip & unzip, store toys and unpack).
In conclusion, navigating the rollercoaster of early parenthood while managing chronic pain is no small feat. It requires a blend of resilience, creativity, and a sprinkle of humour. Embracing the chaos, leaning into the support of our community, and sharing our stories not only helps us cope but also empowers others who may feel isolated in their struggles. Remember, it's perfectly okay to ask for help, prioritise self-care, and celebrate the little victories along the way. Whether it's finding a comfortable position on the couch to cuddle with your little one or discovering a new pain management strategy, every small step counts. So, let's continue to lift each other up, share our quirks, and be the wonderfully imperfect parents we are meant to be. Together, we’ve got this!
