Have you ever watched a camel walk? I had never thought about it until my father posed the question to me 20 years ago. In fact, why would I, having grown up in Georgia and Florida, know something so obscure about an animal I had only seen at the zoo?
Balking at the question and rolling my eyes, as any good child would, I knew he would tell me whether I wanted to know or not. And so, he did. Camels walk right front foot, right rear foot then left front foot and left rear foot. Conversely, other animals, such as dogs and cats, walk with opposite feet, right front, left rear, and then left front, right rear.
That couldn’t be right, so, of course, I had to look it up. He was right! But why do camels walk this way? It’s an adaptation to the conditions in which they live. Camels, like all of us, need to stay steady while walking, and since sand is difficult to walk in, camels have adapted to this method of walking to ensure stability and strength.
I’m sure by now you’re wondering what this has to do with parenting or parent engagement. Parenting is an adaptive role needing adjustment as circumstances dictate. Just like camels, we must move with steadiness, confidence, and strength.
As you’ve likely gleaned from your daily routine, parenting is a constant juggling act requiring you to move quickly and make decisions instantly, all while ensuring the safety of your children. Children will and should try new activities, see where their interests lie, and pursue passions that propel them to become creative and innovative thinkers. The parent’s responsibility is to support them and provide guidance; however, this requires adaptation and careful consideration of what is in their child’s best interests.
Adaptability is the name of the game. Parents must be flexible in their skills, allowing their children to step into various experiences, empowering them to build confidence, carve their paths, and follow their passion. Success occurs because you, the parent, provide the strength and sturdiness and move forward with the balance children deserve and need.
So, the next time you question your ability as a parent, remember the camel’s walk, its ability to adapt to its environment and remain strong.
You are capable. You are adaptable. You are strong and sturdy. And your children are watching it all and soaking it all in.
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I never thought about how a camel walks before! Great connections, Punam!