Kim John Payne Speaks at Shining Mountain Waldorf School

On October 20th, 2010 Shining Mountain Waldorf School is thrilled to be hosting a lecture for the public, entitled "Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier and More Secure Kids", facilitated by Kim John Payne, M. Ed.. This workshop provided the inspiration for Kim's book by the same name, which has just been released in soft cover by Random House in August. His message is one that would attract many parents in Boulder and Denver, those with contemplative leanings, and especially those who are interested in childhood development and education.

Tickets are also available online at http://www.smwaldorf.org/kimpayneevent.asp. A special discount is offered to teachers and students.

A Prayer for the Reluctant School Child

My son Jude is having a hard time GOING to Kindergarten. Once he is there he is fine but when faced with the prospect of going he starts crying. Yesterday morning we rode our bikes together and he wanted to keep stopping to stall and/or cry on the way (making us a little late). I told him about the prayers I say every morning on my walk during sunrise to make my day better, even when I am grumpy about getting about of bed. I told him what I say and that it works to put me in a better mood every time. I asked him if he wanted me to say it for him and he said he did. We started with a grumpy frown on his face, but I said:

May Jude be happy
May Jude be joyful
May Jude be filled with Loving Kindness
May Jude be filled with chocolate covered donuts
May Jude feel loved
May Jude's brother be nicer to him
May Jude be kind and respectful to the earth
May the earth be nicer to Jude and not trip him
May Jude get all green lights today (green means good behavior)

I had him laughing by the time I got to donuts and although he needed lots of hugs and kisses to let me go, I left seeing him smiling. I am glad I found a way to make him happy AND keep moving. It made us both happy.