When reading On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness, two words kept running through my mind. Imagination and family. Are children as imaginative today as say we were when we were youngsters? Perhaps. There will always be the exceptions on both ends of the spectrum, but overall...I think kids "grow up" too fast. We've skipped right over Winnie the Pooh and inundated our children with Hannah Montana. We've traded old fashioned mud pies for video games. What effect does that have then on faith, hope and dreams? I've observed a kindergarten teacher tell a child that "trees can't be blue". Why not? Isn't it those "different" thinkers that solve the world's problems? If my daughters want to draw pigs that fly, then let them be purple too!
Art/Imagination
Andrew Peterson names many creatures in his imaginary world, all of which he has fashioned from pure fanciful thought. As a family, try to draw what you think a "horned hound", "toothy cow", "thwap" or "flabbit" looks like. Can you come up with your own creature and name it? Let your imagination sore! The beauty is that artistic skills aren't needed. Whatever you end up with....was on purpose, right?!!
Family Discussion
Three siblings (Janner, Tink and Leeli Igiby) all think that being the oldest, middle child, and youngest (respectively) is the hardest position to be in. Sound familiar? Of course! It's the debate of the ages and I doubt any child at one point hasn't felt like they've been dealt the hardest hand in the family. The truth is that each role comes with it's share of responsibilities and privileges. Take this time to let each family member discuss what is hard and rewarding about their position in the family. Parents jump in there too! Your kids would love to know that "you've been there" and have had the same feelings as children. It might be an eye opening experience for some. Take it a step further and discuss how everyone can help each family member carry the burden of their role. A family isn't an organization; it's like an organism. It takes all parts to be complete!
As always, let us know, friend, if you have another idea or if you really liked one of the above!
Happy reading!
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