Why kids do better with less: real explanations from "Simplicity Parenting" author

Here's a one-page article to add to your mommy toolbox!  Print it out and hang it on the fridge!  I have to share this short interview with Simplicty Parenting author Kim John Payne.  He is a voice of encouragement to parents trying to steer their kids away from all the "excess" and "stuff" of the holiday season. Or, maybe birthdays or playdates have gotten out of hand.  In situations with kids, I agree that less is more and better behavior-- and higher quality play-- always results.  Here are some amazing, common-sense statements from The Mother Company's December 8th interview.  Click on the link below for the full story. And, if you haven't heard about "simplicity parenting" check out his website at http://www.simplicityparenting.com


What Too Many Toys Can Do
http://www.themotherco.com/2011/12/too-many-toys/

"Fewer toys reduces conflict among siblings. With feedback through our blog and countless workshops, we’ve noticed kids get along better when there is less. It’s not a huge mystery. Fewer toys invokes scarcity. Scarcity fosters more cooperation. It activates the limbic system in the brain which encourages cooperation. With fewer toys, a toy is rare and is precious. Limiting toys allows for increased depth of play that allows children to process their day. I see it as a cup where they carry all of their experiences from the day. it allows them to empty their cup for the day and be ready for the next."

"In this holiday season as parents are looking for toys for their children, they should ask, “Is this a toy that invokes the creative facilities?” Neutral toys tend to be best. The more a child can impart themselves in the toy, the better the toy. The child can have an industry and purpose. All people love this, not just children. I have built something. I have done something, that builds their self-esteem enormously. I am also a fan of real tools for children, small enough for children to use. Real toys. Not cheap plastic ones. Children learn from imitation. They learn by imitating work. Children who help with the work of chores, if they stand along side us with their own tools, their own gardening tools, their own wash up tools, they can mimic and build their sense of self-esteem by accomplishing a task and being helpful. Granted, it’s probably faster as a parent to do the work by yourself, but we can teach and learn through the gift of work. Many parents have said their best gifts have been small tool boxes with sand paper and hammers. I’m a big fan of those kinds of action gifts as opposed to Xboxes. The difference is action. Children are doing the action rather than the action is foisted on the child."