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A short series for the housewife, about transcending mere usefulness, Part 2 (Part 1 is here):
The experts have spoken: A period of Dad playing with the kids before bed, pushing them a bit, regulates their nervous system and makes for an easier bedtime and night’s sleep, paradoxically. It’s better, they say, than telling them to calm down.
This little workout, which ought to last for about 20 minutes can be scheduled so as to reap the benefits of the discharge of energy. They won’t even be aware of the good effects on their behavior because they will be having fun, so it’s worth spending time to do it.
But hear me out: roughhousing with kids is delightful! Never will you experience so much unleashed hilarity, warming your soul to a degree you hardly knew possible!
When Dad tosses them in the air and does all the Dad things like wrestling, having them jump on his back, chasing them up and down the hall (or making them run around after a bath, probably totally naked), growling at them until they howl with laughter, they experience joy! And so do you!
It’s not a matter of consulting professionals and getting the most updated advice from them, but of just enjoying life in an old-fashioned way* with your little ones! The wise housewife sees a value beyond the utilitarian one — she gladly makes a place for it, out of love.
These happy times go on in a family that may not have a lot of money and access to experts, but does have a little breathing room. Dare I suggest that the housewife offers just that? Room for some evening shenanigans, room to laugh, room to delight.
I was with him forming all things: and was delighted every day, playing before him at all times; Playing in the world: and my delights were to be with the children of men. ~ Proverbs 8: 30, 31
*I love this advice from St. Francis de Sales to St. Jean de Chantal and find it has many applications in the life of every woman (so you’ll probably see it again):
“... pursue [virtues] briskly, openly naively, in an old-fashioned way, with liberty, sincerity, and grosso modo. It is because I fear the spirit of constraint and melancholy. It is my wish that you should have a large and open heart on the way to our Lord.” [emphasis added]
Thanks for being here! Apply my thoughts to your situation with discernment, prudence, and confidence — and a sense of humor!
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For the longer version of this Substack and much more on this topic:
My 3-volume book on Order and Wonder in Family Life:
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