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Why I Treat My Kids to These Special Indulgences
by Lila Thompson
Updated: Aug. 15, 2019
Originally Published: May 23, 2019
As parents, we never embark on the journey of raising our children with the intention of spoiling them. Most of us genuinely strive to nurture thoughtful, kind, and responsible individuals. The thought of our kids behaving like entitled brats is cringeworthy, and we certainly don’t want them feeling superior or undeserving of basic respect and kindness.
To instill the values of being good humans, we set boundaries and teach essential life lessons. We say no to impulse buys at the checkout, limit screen time, enforce reasonable bedtimes, and encourage them to respect others, including service workers. We expect them to donate unused toys and participate in community service, such as helping pack meals for families in need during the holidays. If they neglect schoolwork, we make them complete it regardless of whether they’ll receive credit. We teach them to prioritize guests’ comfort and offer them refreshments.
These daily practices contribute to kids who learn to be considerate and understand that nothing is owed to them. However, there are times I love to indulge my children in ways that feel special to them but are still beneficial for the entire family. Here are my top four favorite indulgences:
- Books on Demand
I was inspired by a friend who has an “unlimited book” policy in her household. While her kids don’t have many toys and impulse purchases are off the table, they are always encouraged to ask for books. While I can’t afford brand-new hardcovers, I can find affordable paperbacks on Amazon, at thrift stores, or at our local library. Spoiling my kids with books gives them the joy of choice without the realization that they’re also expanding their horizons with every story they explore. - Flexible Bedtimes
While we maintain a consistent bedtime during the school week to ensure our kids get the sleep they need, occasionally allowing them to stay up late can create cherished memories. Whether it’s a spontaneous game night that turns into a marathon session or a rare opportunity to witness a late-night rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, these moments of shared excitement make the missed sleep worthwhile. - Joyfully Messy Play
As a parent, I often find myself saying, “Eat over your plate!” or “Watch out for that spill!” It’s important to teach kids to take care of their belongings. However, after a good rain, there’s nothing quite like letting them get muddy or splatter paint on a canvas without a care in the world. It’s all about connecting with nature and creating unforgettable memories, even if it means a bit of mess. - Occasional School Skip
While I don’t want to instill the habit of skipping school, there are times when a day off can be just what our family needs. If we’ve had a hectic week and need to reconnect, I might allow a cozy day filled with ice cream and movie marathons. These days often turn into spontaneous adventures, like running outdoors in our pajamas to splash in puddles, creating experiences they will remember fondly.
Ultimately, I want my kids to grasp the importance of gratitude, kindness, and reliability while also understanding the value of breaking the rules every now and then. Making messes and indulging in life’s little pleasures fosters strong bonds and unforgettable memories. Because embracing life with joy is perhaps the most vital lesson of all.
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