It’s true. It’s also often overlooked when we’re in the middle of strife and contention and head butting, but children do learn better when the environment is relaxed and joyful.

How do you keep it that way? There are lots of things that are going to shore us up so we can be awesome. But here are a couple of thoughts.

1. KNOW THAT YOU ARE GOING TO FAIL ON A REGULAR BASIS

You aren’t always going to be the parent that you see as the ideal, regardless of how firmly your ideal is in your mind. You’re tired, you’re busy, you’re flat out most of the time, just doing the things required to keep a family running. Be gentle with yourself. When you fail to meet your own outcomes, remind yourself that you’re learning too. Remind yourself that this is an opportunity for growth. Remind yourself that God is bigger than all of this, and grace is plentiful and up for grabs.

2. KNOW THAT WHEN A DAY IS GETTING ANGSTY, YOU CAN TAKE A PASS

Take the day off. Do a tidy up and then go to the park. Remember that education is not checking off boxes. It’s sparking wonder and delight. It’s keeping a young mind fresh. It’s taking someone by the hand and leading them. It’s following passion. A joyful day, filled with real learning is hardly ever focussed on checking off boxes. A day off doesn’t mean that learning isn’t happening. It usually means it’s happening better.