Being a mom with a disability limits capabilities, but you can have fun with your kids by playing pretend. Sometimes, I daydream that I can walk and do all the fun things. Of course, daydreaming will never change, but you can have fun with your kids without standing or using your hands.
I have the best memories of playing pretend games with my children. Imagination is a gift. No one needs to stand, move, lift, or use limbs. You can go anywhere just by using your mind.
Laura used to set up her dolls and stuffed animals. We would pretend to have tea parties, school, picnics, family outings, and travel. Laughing uncontrollably was inevitable, and the memories lasted. I lived in that moment, but what I wouldn’t do to go back in time to play these games again?
I made up another game when my nephew was five and Laura was two. They loved this game, and I played it with Jason as well. I had them pretend to wear rain jackets and rain boots. The sky was getting gray when going outside and looking out for rain. But, every time it “rained,” I would pretend it would be fruit or vegetables. They’d giggle and pretend they were getting items out of the buckets.
We played this game often, and it would bring so much fun. Jason and I often played with cars and trains by making stories about them. He would do the physical moving of objects. The most crucial part is that we bonded and enjoyed each other’s company.
I also would pretend to make our dogs and cats talk. Laura laughed so hard that I worried she’d stop breathing. We had so much fun with that. I still do that at times.
Sharing stories and coming up with ideas are creative. Never think it’s too silly to have fun with your children. These are where the most beautiful memories begin.
