Life Lessons from Daniel Tiger

If you have young children, chances are you are familiar with Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. The PBS series follows the lives Daniel Tiger, his family, and friends. Children learn age-appropriate social skills with Daniel through creativity, imagination, and music.

For me, the songs are what stick out. Or, rather, get stuck in my head. I find myself not only singing Daniel’s jingles throughout the day, but making up some of my own! Example: “Sometimes we can push the button to make the door open, and sometimes others get a turn.” This was quickly created as my 2 ½ year old nearly melted down that another child was pushing the automatic door button.

But the more I listened to the songs and lessons Daniel Tiger attempts to bestow upon his viewers, I began to think about what could I learn? Here are a few adult life lessons from Daniel Tiger:

It’s okay to make mistakes. Try to fix them and learn from them, too.” Being a wife and mother to two small boys has afforded me plenty of mistakes. Every day come with challenges, times I fail, and times I succeed. When I do make mistakes, it’s best to reflect on what happened and see how the outcome could be different the next time.

“It helps to say what you’re feeling.” When my husband and I disagree, my first instinct is to clam up. But I’ve learned it’s better to speak up than to let emotions fester inside. Talk about what’s bothering you. But also remember to share the good things, too!

“Do your best, your best is the best for you.” We all have special gifts, but as moms, we feel like we have to be good at everything. Perfect looking homes, Pinterest-worthy parties, home-cooked meals, successful job. The list could go on and on! Focus on the talents you have been given, and remember to celebrate even the smallest successes!

“When you’re feeling frustrated, take a step back and ask for help.” We moms never want to ask for help. Is it pride? Shame? Not knowing who to ask? Yet we all want to help each other! If you are frustrated with the kids, your spouse, your job, your house, take a step back. Go on a walk, run an errand by yourself, have a glass of wine, even just step outside for a minute alone.  Then chat with your husband, call your mom, text your BFF, and talk with them about what’s going on.

You can change your hair or what you wear, but no matter what you do, you’re still you.” Moms wear so many different “hats”- cook, nurse, chauffeur, teacher, coach. Sometimes the person who we are inside gets lost in the mix. It’s easier said than done, but try and find something you can do and enjoy. Train for a 5K, take a cooking class, read a book, join a weekly Bible study. Even if it’s for just a few moments in the day, you can be you.

Life lessons can come in any form. You might be surprised on what you can learn, even while watching a kids TV show.  Ugga Mugga!

 

 

Anne Gegen
Anne and her husband, Ryan, live in East Wichita with their two boys, born in 2014 and 2016, and their dog, Lola. She taught second grade for six years before deciding to stay home with her boys. Anne is involved with her church and an active member of Junior League of Wichita. A transplant from Kansas City, Anne enjoys exploring Wichita with her family, finding fun and different activities to keep her toddler engaged. She is continually on the lookout for new restaurants to try and is always up for a glass of wine with girlfriends!