When Keith and I were dating and engaged, we had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with a family who had four young children. We got to glimpse family life up close, and yet, we proceeded (they say love is blind) J
One of the many things I learned from the mom of this family, who is incredibly hard working and organized, was an idea that I’ve implemented in my own family. She has a plate that says, “You’re Special” on it and uses it to celebrate birthdays, good report cards, a great basketball game, etc. Hers is really cute and probably from Pottery Barn or Crate & Barrel or Etsy. Anyway, ours isn’t “designer”, but the boys LOVE it!
We made it through a Crayola-Create-Your-Own-Plate-Kit along with several other plates as a Christmas present to Keith a few years ago. They have some similar items on amazon. It is amazing how much it means to the boys to get the “You’re Great Plate”. (It also serves well when you don’t want your two-year-old to use the fine china everyone else is using, while helping him feel special.)
The joy they get at being told directly, “You’re Great”, is a good reminder how much they long for our affirmation and praise. In fact, we all need that. The other day, my oldest set the table and gave me the “You’re Great Plate” and it made my night. We could all use a little pat on the back sometimes.
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up"
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Oh Kate, my mother had the "You are Special" plate that she would always pull out at every birthday, etc. We LOVED it. What wonderful memories you are giving your children!
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