The following is a post by Kari Patterson of Sacred Mundane.
It was one word that caused the seismic shift in my mindset. That forced me to wipe the school slate clean and reevaluate. It came out of left field, but then again it confirmed everything I’ve ever wondered–and agonized over–with regards to my son. The word?
Asperger’s.
It’s true, for the almost 8 years of his life I’ve wondered at my son, who is marvelous and baffling all at once. Unique can’t begin to capture the glorious idiosyncrasies of this man-child. I’d marveled at how a 7-year-old could be at a high school reading comprehension of science and history, and yet be barely able to legibly write his own name? Why the social frustrations? The incredible intensity? The overwhelm and overstimulation in public places? The extreme need for calm, home, steady, routine?
It never occurred to me that there might be a name for this. And, to be fair, things weren’t bad, so there was no need for alarm. Most of my son’s Asperger’s symptoms are strengths. I wouldn’t trade them for the world. The challenges are, well, challenges. Every child has challenges. Every child has special needs. So when I found out that Asperger’s was part of my son’s make-up, I re-read Jamie’s fabulous piece, All kids have special needs.
And, as always, her words were like life to my soul. Then I marched straight to the library and picked up Simplicity Parenting.
And another single word brought revelation and perspective to my heart and life:
Simplicity.
For young children (4-10), when did we begin believing our culture’s lie that we need more, more, more?! More enrichment classes, more youth sports, more activities, more socialization, more books, more toys, more programs.
Amazingly enough, what I needed most, in order to effectively nurture and teach my son … was less.
Less stimulation. Less media. Fewer outside activities. Fewer toys. Fewer choices. Fewer words (by me). Less commotion. Less exposure to adult issues and stressors. Less of me hovering over them ensuring they are happy.
They need to be surrounded by virtue and simplicity. By a few wholesome book choices. By a few open-ended toys (the less the toy does the more our children’s brains do!). A few carefully chosen activities.
And then, in a few areas, a bit more:
More of me, just listening. More of me, just smiling.
More free playtime with dirt and rocks and sticks. More opportunities to experience the best catalyst for creativity and imagination: boredom.
Simplicity Parenting was exactly the antidote I needed for the toxic rush of our hurried consumer culture. Reading this book was like finally eating what I’ve always hungered for but never quite known that I needed. Specifically, Payne suggests a simplicity regimen that includes 4 steps:
- Environment
- Rhythm
- Schedules
- Filtering out the adult world
I cannot say enough about this 4-step simplification process. We are only a month into our Asperger’s journey, and every child is so unique, I don’t presume to know what will work wonders for you.
Simplicity isn’t a cure-all. But I wholeheartedly recommend Simplicity Parenting if you are, in any way, looking for how to put the simple back into your homeschool … and into your life.
As I type these words my husband is napping (restful Sunday afternoons reclaimed!) and my children are happily playing with the simple toys that were recently unearthed in my colossal de-cluttering and toy reduction. A clean, uncluttered house is just one of the beautiful byproducts of a simplicity swamp-out.
Our rhythm and schedule are finally in tune. My soul feels like it just took a deep breath. My son–and daughter–are happy and thriving. A simplification overhaul has already dramatically shifted the climate of our home.
Yes, we’ll continue to address challenges, and not every day will be uninterrupted digging for bugs. But it’s remarkable what a simplicity shift can do for the whole family, not just the “special” kids. If I could recommend one parenting book as you begin this year, it’s this one.
Your turn: What situation in your home or family’s life right now could use an infusion of simplicity? Thanks for reading.
Monday links
I loved this book too. Time to re-read it!
Carrie Willard’s latest post: Our Curriculum, 2014/2015
I would gift this book to my daughter who is a mother to two girls, 4 and 2, and is expecting a boy in December. She is trying to live simply in this age of more, more, more. I so admire her for taking that stand when everyone around her seems to be caught up in the “go, do, more” mindset. Thank you for the chance.
Southern Gal’s latest post: Psalm 20
I’ve been feeling myself bulk against the world’s idea of child rearing for a few months now. Maybe it’s because my now four year old’s next expected step is preschool full time? He loves it. But I somehow feel like I’ve catapulted him into the world of standardized learning before he even gets to actually just play! One of his first comments? “They never let me play” What a heart breaker!
Right now I’ve just been bringing my requests before God. Requests to build a better life than the one my husband and I have been rushing to build these last five years. A much more simpler life.
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Have you looked at Montessori for your 4yo? It’s not for everyone but my younger son thrived in a good Montessori preschool. Go visit one. They are all about simplicity, play, socializing, and experiential learning.
It’s funny – because we are walking this road with our 7.5 almost 8 year old. We just found out he has sensory processing issues. Possibly other things as well? But he is unique to us and our family and we love him the way he is. 🙂 I will be getting this book no matter what! Thanks for the give-away.
We could really simplify our environment. Fewer toys, less stuff. With my 5 and 2 year olds, I find it hard to take that leap, but know it would bring more peace to our home!
Ours would be to declutter more. I’ve been working on it but still have a ways to go!
Simplicity of mind! Not to be worried and pressured, but to be secure in faith, in imagination, in freedom and in my children. Would love to read this book!
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We could use some more pairing down on toys. I am always cleaning out but it seems we still have so many!
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I also have a kiddo on the spectrum and could use an infusion of simplicity in our lives.
This had been on my to-read list forever. We struggle so much with rhythm, our days are so chaotic!
Thank you for sharing this! Our family is currently simplifying in all areas of life but I would say the one I area struggle with the most is being still. So we have freed up time by simplifying activities, simplifying the home, simplifying meal times and yet I still find myself unable to just relax and be with my kids uninterrupted in thought and action.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. It is so great to finally figure out (or at least get on the path of figuring out) what your kids need. We just moved to a new country overseas and I am sure my girls would love and appreciate some simplicity parenting. Thank you for the chance at a giveaway!
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My house needs a major decluttering, so this would be awesome!
I also just found out that my son has Asberger’s and the topics in ‘Simplicity Parenting’ are exactly the things God has been laying on my heart, lately. Thank you for sharing about your struggles and what God has been doing in your lives! I will be checking out that book!
I loved Simplicity Parenting. It was the first book that I read when I started becoming interested in simplifying our lives. I have since pared down the toys, clutter, and general noise in our home and I have to say, it made a world of difference.
2 of our 5 children are spectrum kids and we have been working on simplifying for 2 years now. I would love to own this book! Thanks for the chance.
House hunting. It is easy to get carried away with what could be (and what we can’t afford) and not remember our priority of simplicity and simpleness.
I loved this book as well and would love to own a copy so I do not have to check my desire to mark it up and highlight! I think I am due for a reread as the holidays and a new baby approaches!
Thank you for this. I’m quite certain I had Simplicity Parenting on my “To Read” list several years ago. I might even have checked it out from the library, but the hectic in our days kept me from reading it. I am homeschooling 3 boys — almost 11 yo, almost 7 yo and a 5 year old — with big energy and ideas. At these ages, I’m still experiencing a very real need to simplify our lives and routines. I would greatly appreciate the book if I were to win. 🙂
I have wanted to read this book forever it seems. Always checked out.
We have always tried to live a simple life. And for some odd reason I feel like this year we have gotten a bit off track. Perhaps its because we finally have a house for the size of our family, maybe even a little too big. When we moved in I found empty corner rather … disconcerting and began filling them. Now I miss the empty spaces. Especially in the kids rooms. And our home school? I know that could use some simplifying. Anyway, thanks for this opportunity.
Rita’s latest post: On this First Day of School
I’m homeschooling my oldest for kindergarten this year because I wanted her to have another year to be free of homework and hustling from one activity to the next in full day kindergarten at public school. This book could be a great way to help me build the foundation for this year (and possibly more years) of homeschooling.
I can’t tell you how many times I have recommended this book! I just read it again recently, followed by another fantastic book, “Do Less”, and I was on a roll of cleaning out and simplifying. I no longer spend huge amounts of time cleaning up and reorganizing (ie, shifting crap around!). I now have the free time to read more to my kids, and I don’t dread the thought of someone just stopping by the house! My kids are able to pick up after themselves because they aren’t overwhelmed at the mass amount of toys. They have watched me donate carloads, and this time they were able to let go of things too, finally! The thing I struggle with is trying to explain to them about why we don’t need more stuff. I know it’s natural for kids to want more, but with the holidays coming, I need a way to prepare them for our “Simple Christmas” that still has a magical feel without them feeling let down. They are 7 and 9, so they understand giving to others, and we regularly donate to our church’s toy drive and the food pantry, and give to Heifer International. But how do you show a kid that they have ENOUGH, especially when our society says we never have enough!? (oh, and we don’t have cable, so they aren’t bombarded by advertisements, but one trip to Target negates that!)
I have wanted to (and struggled to) simplify our lives for a while. This book would be a great starting point for me! Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Moving, being between homes, schooling where we find ourselves. I just have to keep reminding myself simple and as much routine as we can maintain will get us through. I keep thinking I need to read this book to help us through this transition.
We always seem to be busy doing something. Sure those things are educational but I often get that nagging feeling we should be still instead of busy.
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I am constantly feeling the pressure to have my boys do this or that, they shouldn’t do soccer but baseball, they need more social interaction, they need to do…!!! I just want to play with my boys and see them learn and grow in their own way.
We are drowning in junk toys! I know my kids play better when there is less stuff so I definitely need to simplify our environment.
We got a very hectic schedule at the moment. My youngest just started school. He is also very brilliant in math and science and gets overwhelmed with noise and commotion. He seems to be enjoying school, but it has been hardest for me since I loved homeschooling. Thanks!
I’ve been wanting to read this book! I actually have it in my Amazon wish list right now. We need to simplify our STUFF. My kids are so attached to their toys and things that they aren’t willing to let me simplify – and I want to respect that these are THEIR things and I need their approval to get rid of them. It’s tough, because I know we all have too much. I need to set the example and start with simplifying my own things, I suppose.
Whew! We will soon be homeless and traveling extensively until we are able to move overseas to help begin a medical clinic in Zambia. I need everything simplified :)! It’s been a struggle with my 4 kids and getting rid of stuff but still feeling overwhelmed with commitments and scheduling. This was such an encouraging post!
Our schedules could seriously benefit from being simplified. I have also become more focused on allowing my children to be children. I like the idea of keeping them unexposed to the stessors of adult life as long as possible. Thanks for recommending this book! Would love to read it.
Toys! Dear heavens, the toys! We have 3 sets of very generous grandparents. I need to go through and weed them out. Again. 🙂
We are about 3 weeks away from an international move, nothing is packed nor inventoried (yes, you have to have a list of everything with you, with dollar amount of worth) and my parents are in town for the next number of days, wanting to do all the touristy things in our area. Needless to say…I’m just trying to not think about it until they leave.
Sarah M
Sarah M’s latest post: On Vacation….Be Back Soon
We have been working hard at simplifying our stuff and the spaces in our home. We still have a ton of work to do on that, but it’s coming along and making a huge difference. What is even harder for me to let go of, though, that is really cluttering our life is schedule clutter. My kids don’t have enough peace and rhythm and free time to learn and play because we always have something we are trying to go to … Play group, my sister’s house, shopping, library, doctor’s appointments … a lot of those are good, and even essential. But the result is we are running out the door most days instead of having a secure basis of identity and rhythm in our home. Maybe reading this book will help me to catch a stronger vision of what it is we are working for by simplifying, which can give me the courage to say no to much of the activity and busyness I can’t seem to stay away from. Thanks for recommending this book!
Around this time especially, I seem to fall for “more is more”. I’ve been wanting to read Simplicity Parenting for a while now, and on those days when I lower my expectations and focus in on relationships, life feels better.
We could pare down books, as much as it pains me.
We need to simplify and ‘routinize’ (is that a word) are mornings and evenings. Both my daughter and I would benefit from not having to think about the next thing to do for every step of getting ready to leave the house or preparing ourselves each evening for the next day
I am trying to cut back on media usage, for both me and kiddo. She is addicted to Curious George! But I know that I need to find other ways to entertain her/soothe her than a monkey
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Thank you for such a great reminder that simplicity doesn’t only benefit us as parents, but more so our children! It’s one if my goals to live a simple unbusy life and we love it 🙂 I really need to work on declittering of toys and offer ones that use less batteries and more brain power!
What confirmation! In a world so hurried and pressured to out your kids in this or go on that vacation or buy the newest iPad! We have worked so hard to stay away from feeding into the pressure of it all and let our kids just be kids! Even though we work hard to be as disconnected as possible from all the social pressures we can always do better! Sometimes I think I’m the one needing to be less “in touch” with the world!
Decluttering of my children’s room and I believe my own and my husband’s schedules could benefit from doing a bit less.
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Bless you for this post and opportunity. I will start homeschooling here in a few minutes and our “work” table is possessed with piles of books, workbooks, downloaded connect-the-dots, memory work, games loaned to us, etc. I am overwhelmed before I begin. Old age, two international adoptions in less than two years, clutter upon clutter – I lay awake at night and crave, pray for simplicity.
Thank you so much for this article. My heart is set on simplifying (spurred on by the loss of most everything in our finished basement due to recent sewage back-up flood) (tho the desire was already in me and I’m not overly sad about the great loss, ok except maybe the furnace;) The boys just lost over 3/4 of their toys in the flood, a huge relief to me. This article strengthens me to really get my husband on board with the simplicity thing, thank you!
We just moved from atlanta to arizona and in the process got rid of the majority of our toys. Problem is, I have been so occupied with house hunting and such that technology has become too big a apart of my kids life. I want to ease that back out!
I think we could use more simplicity at home with technology. I’ve had my eye on this book for a bit and can’t get it at our libraries, so I’d love to win! Thanks.
I would love to simplify every area of my life.
This books sounds like a great read. We could all benefit from more simplicity.
Simplicity of life is what I need right now!!! I am embarking on the road to becoming a new homeschooling Mom of a First grader and I am feeling excited and nervous.
Medical appointments! We have so many all the time and our lives seem to revolve around them. I think I need to change my mindset, but sometimes it is just so overwhelming.
This book sounds fantastic! My son has not been given an ASD diagnosis, but he has many of the same challenges as other children on the spectrum.
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It feels like we always have too much stuff, especially kid stuff.
This book has been a God send. Our eldest has benefited immensely from this book. Our entire family has. It’s my #1 recommendation for a family that has a child that’s struggling. (And I’m just commenting cause I wanted to comment on my love of the book. I own it, so if I happen to be drawn please re-draw 🙂 )
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This book sounds lovely. I’m always struggling with ways to declutter our life, physically and emotionally. I’m always yearning for more simplicity. I hope I win! 🙂
Our toy situation could use a major simplifying- it is beyond overwhelming. When I started having children, I always said we would go the simple toy route. But, grandparents, great grandparents, aunts and uncles use toys as a means to show their love in this family so it’s super hard to combat. I would love this book to revive my motivation for a simpler life. Thanks for the giveaway!
Today is day 2 of homeschooling my youngest, he is 9 year old and has high functioning Autism. I have two boys on the autistic spectrum and most days I wonder how I make it through each day. My 12 year old is low functioning and mostly non-verbal and my 9 year old is very similar to your son. He reads at a high school level but can’t write well enough to function in public school. My boys are polar opposites and I have recently wondered if simplifying my life…our life….might be just what we need. I feel like I am running all the time between therapy, tutors, golf lessons, etc. and drowning most of the time. Your article/blog hit home deep in my heart and it was like wow……someone else gets it. Definitely think this might be a book I need to take a look at.
Very thought provoking. Keeping things simple, being at home, and sticking to routine is especially helpful for one of our boys also. Social situations are always interesting, especially in large groups. I think we could further simplify the toys and clutter in our home.
My 7 year old adopted daughter was diagnosed yesterday with FASD, visual spatial deficits, severe reading disorder and ADD. I’m overwhelmed but not completely surprised. Simplicity is exactly what we need right now.
Goodness…our whole lives could use simplifying right about now…we are purging and downsizing our possessions (which were never many to begin with, but it’s amazing how much you accumulate when you’re not paying attention, isn’t it?), and beginning school with our second child, and…oh it is a bit overwhelming.
I read Simplicity Parenting, a bit, a few years ago. It was borrowed from the library & there was a waiting list, so I didn’t have the time I would have liked to give it a deep reading. I would love to read it again…thanks for the chance! xo
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My 4 daughters would benefit from me reading this book! Thanks for the recommendation.
I took the last two weeks of August as a time “away” from the internet and fb, away from activities for our three kids that, although they might be fun and valuable were just getting to be too much, away from “doing” and “going” constantly. And it was wonderful, for our whole family. I am intrigued by the book you mention, as now that I am “back” into the busy routine I find myself wishing for more time, and less stuff to fill it with. 🙂 Thanks for the inspiring article, Kari!
I am SO where you are. Except you are a bit ahead of me. My 10 yr old son has mild Aspergers. I own Simplicity Parenting. I’m halfway through. And here I am struggling, trying to figure out what and how to teach him better.
I’ve heard wonderful things about this book and would love to read it!
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We could definitely benefit from simplifying the toy pile and just “stuff” in general. That is my big goal for fall, cleaning, organizing, and minimizing. Isn’t it funny how it can seem so complicated to simplify your life sometimes. 🙂 Great post!
This will be our first year homeschooling and our routine has yet to be established. I think we’d all benefit from decluttering and establishing a routine with lots of open days. I’ve heard such wonderful things about this book! I’d love to win a copy. 🙂
I think I really really need this book! I am feeling so overwhelmed starting our homeschooling year this year. Overwhelmed primarily at the lack of organization in our tiny (600 square foot) house and overwhelmed at the prospect of decluttering and simplifying. My heart longs for what you describe here, but I am unsure of where to even begin. We have to stay in our home (with 3 children and a dog) because of financial issues and business struggles. Thanks for the giveaway!
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Would love the chance to receive this book to read about another way of doing things, to learn about simplification. With three kids at home, I could use a healthy dose of that!
Would love to have this book. We have a “high-maintanence”, drama-king son who could use some simplicity in his life.
I’ve had my eye on this book for a LONG time. I think it would nourish me, and my family by default.
We are in the process of a move! (Our first as a family) I see this as a WONDERFUL, God-given opportunity to start anew. And we’re going for nothing in this new home which is not beautiful or useful. Preferably, both.
Thanks for the chance to win!
My husband recently as in this past weekend lost his job so any and all help in simplifying our lives would be great.
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I have a teen with aspberger’s as well. He was diagnosed at 10. Homeschooling has been a great fit for him and he is actually more socially aware now. Great post!
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The book is intriguing. If I had to pick one area to simplify it would be our house and all the stuff we hold on to too tightly.
I’m working two jobs plus managing two websites all so that my wife can stay home and homeschool our kids. With our schedules getting so complicated, we could do with some simplification.
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I just read simplicity Parenting and my husband is reading it now. That is one to revisit over and over and to give as a give to families everywhere. We had already been implementing some of the ideas in the book before reading it, but it gave me the push to go further. I just slimmed down my sons toys. He didn’t have a lot compared to some households we’ve seen, but it felt like too much for us. I could probably slim down even more. One step at a time. We have been solely but surely making minimalist efforts for a while now. It’s amazing how much stuff we can get rid of on a regular basis and still have more to purge the next month. Simplicity is freeing. Thanks for sharing.
Our son has aspergers as well, so I am working on all of this. Our toys need de cluttering, as well as everything in our house it seems, even homeschool curriculum and such. Thank you so much for the opportunity to win!
Our toy clean up….too much stuff under foot.
This is definitely a book that I could use! With one in school, two homeschooled and two children too young for school, I need some simplicity. Thanks for the chance to win!
Our Rhythm could use some help and guidance!
Intrigued by this book! I would love to read it! In May we bought an acreage and moved our boys (8 & 4) to the country. I quit working full time to stay home with our baby (born in July) and began homeschooling our youngest boy. My husband works 6 days a week from sun up to sun down as a farmer so he is not available to help at home. I am barely keeping my head up and eyes open at this point and in December we will be getting custody of my step son from Honduras. He speaks no English and I speak very limited Spanish so a lot needs to be accomplished! I have a strong desire to make this all be beneficial for all of us but have no idea where to begin. I look forward to learning and growing into all my new hats! Hopefully, I will be able to glean info to help me simplify!!
We need to declutter some kids rooms.
This book sounds like a wonderful read. I love the idea of a simple life. One area of my family’s life that could use simplification would be all the toys and extra stuff we keep “just in case”. For me, visual clutter is stressful and distracting. I would love to be able to truly adopt a purposefully simple lifestyle.
I would love to read this! We could definitely use some toy simplifying around here.
I have 4 children ages 7 and under.. I homeschool 3 of them. We are endlessly trying to find ways to simplify our life. The husband took a lesser paying job to be home more with the kids even. It just seems like no matter what I do it’s never enough… I’m already feel frustrated by this new curriculum I chose and my mom who stopped by to visit today says to me, “why not use the one you uses last year? Roan did awesome and it was easy!”.. I guess sometimes I feel like I’m never doing enough. That there needs to be more and that’s not the case. Roan passed his 2nd grade CAT with a 99/100. Proof that “simple” worked just fine.
I borrowed this book at the library but didn’t have time to read it before it had to be back, so I didn’t get far. I would love it!
I am SO very overwhelmed. I have 5 children who range from 20 months to a soon to be 11 yr old. I start homeschooling my third child this year, and I don’t know where the time will come from. My second, our first son, is so all over the place. Sensitive, dramatic, loud, extremely stubborn. So often I just want to run because I don’t know how to parent him and he can often take up my entire day leaving my younger children and oldest daughter with a distant, frazzled and hurting momma. My son has gotten better with some dietary changes and supplements, but it is still a battle. Schoolwork and chores bring whining and comaining most days, to the point I am in tears because it is such a battle.
My home overwhelms me completely. So much paper stuff, toys and just random things I don’t know what to do with. We can hardly walk in my newly renovated basement it’s so full of “stuff”. I need help. Honestly, I look around my house as feel like I am drowning and make excuses to go and not be there or deal with it.
I am right there with you Ulanda. Life tends to zip by with no chance to do the things we most deeply need and want to do. Hang in there.
My homeschool journey has just begun with a 6 yr old girl and 3 year old boy.Both struggle with what we fondly call ‘ odd behaviors’ . Neither fit the norm of their peers. One excels in some academic areas, but not others. One has major social anxiety issues. We chose to homeschool to help with these behaviors.
I started reading this book before my family moved last year. I pulled all the toys out of my children’s rooms before the move and I can’t tell you how easy that made our tidy-up times. Hardly anything to tidy up but was there was well-loved. I didn’t get to finishe reading it since I had to take all library books back (didn’t want to accidentally pack them). Today I’m sick. A sinus infection the doctor said. I wish I had this knowledge I. Hand and on my brain for days like this. I think I would recuperate more fully and quickly.
I struggle with getting my spouse to understand the need for simplicity, especially for our four year old son with autism. Clutter and chaos often describe the environment.
This book sounds like the answer to what life has to offer, not what commerce has to offer. Thank you for your thoughts.
I could use some simplicity in our evening routines. Seems chaotic.
As I read through some of the comments I thought, “Wow!” How is it that we do this day in and day out! The area of simplifying in our house we need most is the stuff (papers, toys and books). With 5 children ages 13 down to 18 months we often feel pulled school-wise. Add church responsibilities and work on top it all seems to be too much. Our relationships suffer when our home is physically cluttered. I’m looking forward to reading this book. Thank you for sharing your personal experience and what is currently helping you.
Our schedule. I feel like we are always so busy that I never get to relax at home and everything is always rushed.
I feel like my whole life needs simplifying right now! I did really well at saying no to things and slowing down during the spring, but these past few months things have crept back in. I have to figure out which things are most important and cut a few out. My problem is figuring out which things.
We need to streamline the amount of stuff we own (and have to put away) so that we can spend less time cleaning up.
My husband and I are in the middle of figuring out whether or not to pull our son from public school. Will it make our family life more simple or more complicated to homeschool? What does The Lord want us to do? Either way, we pray we will honor The Lord in whatever decision He leads us to.
Would love to read this book on simplicity!
With 5 children 5 years and younger, every aspect of our life could use some simplicity! Especially the clutter. 🙂
I’d love a copy of this book! I tried borrowing it from the library, but a combination of book waiting lists and real life craziness meant I didn’t get to devote much time to it. As apartment-dwellers, we can always use more simplicity!
Thank you for this book recommendation. I look forward to reading it. We started simplifying last year – our first year of homeschool – in preparation for what we hope will be a God-directed life change. We realized that with our complicated schedules, house, and thought patterns, we couldn’t make ourselves available to be used by God. I still tend to clutter things up with my procrastination and slothfulness, but I’m trying to keep it simple!
Definitely our environment could use some simplifying! Thank you for the giveaway.
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This is a book I’m requesting from the library, but sounds like a book I will be reading through many times. My almost five year old shows us how she craves a simple life. When we are on the go too much or adult problems begin seeping into our daily life-style, she shows us its time to slow down by meltdowns. The area we need to de-clutter most is books.
I am mother to a very active two year old boy, with another son on the way (expected in November). It’s So Overwhelming To Feel Like I Have To Do It All…But What I Really Need Is To Press Into God, Focus On Honoring God With My Family And home, And Slow Our Lives Down. Thank You For Your Last 2 Posts Addressing This. definitely want to read this book. p. S. sorry for all the caps my phone is crazy.
We could definitely use simplification in our environment!!!
We are currently living with my parents (with 5 kids!) and it’s hard to manage the stuff because not all of it is ours to do what we’d like with. Definitely some creative simplicity in our living situation.
I life that you are giving away this book. I am trying so hard to simplify our lives right now. Last month I quit my job and began homeschooling so that we could eliminate the 1.5 hours of daily commute and spend more quality time with my kids. I’m sure this would benefit me to read.
I’d love to read it – sounds like just what my family needs
We need to simplify the amount of toys and activities my daughter has access to. Especially with a birthday and Christmas coming up in a couple of months!
Our office. Too many papers not in order, too many legos all over the place. Too much stuff!
Thanks for the reminder to slow it down. So many projects, places to go, things to do!! I just need to remember to let my kids be kids. Let them look at the bugs or throw rocks in the river, and join them!
Our calendar.
And my Inbox.
Just this morning – I remarked to my husband that I simply cannot keep up with all the evites and rsvp’s for meetings and such. Our calendar is so full. Even right this moment – I am sitting here trying to figure out if I am going to go to a dinner I’m expected to attend tonight, or not. Tonight also holds soccer practice, a husband who isn’t feeling well, sermon prep for husband, and school planning.
It’s all good stuff. There is just so much of it!
I.need.that.book.
Great post,
Kate 🙂
Kate’s latest post: Sunday
We’re working on simplifying our schedule. I’ve managed to corral the “PE” classes into one morning a week; one morning a week we have a Bible study with friends; one evening a week, mom has meetings to go to; and one evening a week we’ll probably have a small group meeting with our church. But other than Sunday mornings, our time is our own otherwise. I’ve said “no” to MOPS (helping or attending/leading). I’ve said “no” to a laid-back (but weekly) co-op some friends are starting. We’ve said “no” to AWANA. When we first started homeschooling, I felt like I needed to “prove” that homeschoolers were flexible and could be at all the playgroups and meetings. Now I feel like I’m struggling to preserve our “academic” time while still allowing our extroverts to flourish (and get in PE that the county will accept). It will never be “simple,” I fear….this balance…but I think we’re getting closer.
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Our stuff…too many clothes means too much laundry to do, too many toys means it’s too hard for kids to easily clean up, too many papers and I lose important things. My stress is then taken out on the kids, of course!
Like so many others we could really use simplicity in so many areas. Homeschooling four kids under the age of 9 is a recipe for clutter and our house really needs some serious simplifying:) Thanks for your inspirational post!
I am a parent to 4 kiddos under 11. Myb2nd born is one of “those boys” who would probably be on heavy medication for ADHD and the like if I allowed it. Our 3rd is dead with cochlear implants and I am homeschooling the oldest 3 with a busy toddler in the mix. Am always eager to read other resources that would be a help to our family dynamic and spiritually refreshing.
We need to simplify on stuff. Too many toys and other things that I have trouble getting rid of. My son also has asperger’s. I am now wondering if I have been doing too much trying to help him.
Sounds Great!
Truly, Simplicity Parenting is a book I wish I had as we navigated homeschooling with our elder boys. Now with an imaginative and creative daughter – I crave simplicity, as I work and she wants to go…go…GO! Honestly, simplicity is something many of us could benefit from and I am sure this book will Bless whichever family wins, just as your blogs benefit us all daily. smiles & hugs…
Blessed to see another mama taking this step towards simplicity for her family.
My home organization could definitely use an infusion of simplicity. 🙂
My house full of stuff could use some simplification.
Goodness- probably every area of my life could use it, but mostly, my marriage could. We need clarity and wisdom and love again.
Erika’s latest post: Pie Charts and Apple Pies
My kids toys and my home need simplifying. It is a constant struggle to clear clutter and focus more on the kids.
I have an 8 year old Aspy, and I would LOVE to read this book! This makes me have hope!
I feel as though I am constantly simplifying, but with a new baby, a big move, and starting to Homeschool, a lot of new things are coming my way. It would be great for some new perspective and ideas and hope. I love The Sacred Mundane, too, it’s uplifting. Thank you!
I am always seeking out ways to simplify especially due to my children’s ages. They are 7, 4, 3, 3, 2.5 and due in November. Two of them are adopted which presents its own special challenges and we also live in China. 🙂 Simplicity and boredom are two things I LOVE!
Too many toys and too many activities! We have access to so much but we don’t need to do everything. That’s hard sometimes.
I am in the middle of that book myself. I would love to be simplified in stuff we own.
With just coming home from having our beautiful son born to us 1 week ago, we want to make sure his two older sisters (5 1/2 and 3 1/2). We do not want to get sucked into that tv vortex to keep them entertained. At the same time, the stress of the newborn phase with sleepless nights and heightened emotions is overwhelming and your words about keeping the adult situations really struck home with me after a “bad” day. Our middle child (I admit and repent fully of) witnessed harsh words spoken by both me and daddy to each other and tears on my part. I don’t want my children to grow up too fast and that is on us to control in our home within our actions and words. Thank you so much!
I would love to read this book. Of course our local library does not carry it. I have been wondering my daughter could be struggling so hard at reading and spelling, yet can fly through Science and Math. I removed her from public school bc her teacher made her stand on the fence daily bc she said that she was being defiant for not reading. We have struggled these past couple of years until I realized she really was having issues. Then she had a seizure and once we researched the type she had it stated that a learning disability was linked to it. My eyes started opening up. So after I kicked myself numerous times and cried my eyes out for punishing her, I then went to God in prayer and have been searching diligently for resources to help me with how to work with her and weather to back off in a certain area and what to add in another. So I would love to read this book. Thank you for sharing.
We moved across country 3 months ago and after a quick Summer of trying to get settled we’re starting our homeschool lessons again. I have 17, 15 and 10 yr old, one special needs. I definitely need to simplify things and get organized.
Kari~
I really appreciate your open heart about your home life; your posts have truly helped me; this one, however mirrored my homelife so well I finally have to say something . You just described my son, and I wish we had realized it years ago. I think in many ways The Lord may have shielded us from that knowledge since it took two other of our younger children having similar challenges for us to put the pieces together. We have moved many times, and in all of it I’m thankful God showed us how to unschool. Yet I do feel the constant pull (or push)to get too complicated with all our children’s needs (we have 8 children). I have been praying that He would show us what to do to help our kids. I do feel lost in the absolute mayheim of our home life too often. Honestly this has come at such a good time. I would really be helped by this book. Thank you.
I have prayed and felt led to homeschool, but lacked the courage to start this year. I have an almost 1 year old, 2, 4, and 7 year old. With the new school year starting for my 7 year old there are programs and groups she wants to be a part of, but I feel like our family life is being dictated by her school schedule. Our family’s schedule needs an infusion of simplicity and peace. Hoping for the courage to do what I feel is on my heart and homeschool them.
Two areas come to mind: our schedule and the clutter in our home. I find when these areas are in check the whole family benefits from it. As Henry David Thoreau said, “Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify, simplify.” It has become my mantra, and Payne’s book is one of my favorites.
I think my BRAIN could use a dose of simplicity. 🙂 Sorting out the good from the needed. Truly, when I am calm and focused on the “main things” it sets the tone in our home. I’m excited to read this book!
Such a great timely post this is for me! Thank you! 🙂 We are striving for simplicity in all areas of our lives, working right now on decluttering and cutting down on “stuff ” that just makes it too hard to keep up with, creating simpler meals, and working on simplifying our activities. Plus, I truly agree with you on striving for less words, less busyness, and less stress on our families! And it’s nice to see we aren’t alone! 😀
My whole house needs to be simplified! I feel we have too much of everything. I even wonder if my homeschooling choices need to be paired down. Thank for another great post Kari.
As a mom of 7 and 14 year homeschool veteran, I think Simplicity Parenting sounds like the infusion of fresh air this family needs. Thanks for posting.
Our environment could use some simplicity…no matter how much I declutter, it seems like it’s never enough. Thanks for the chance to win!
I have so been wanting to do this, but can’t quite figure out where to start, so I would really love some guidance. Thank you for the chance to enter!
Everything!
So well said! I struggle with giving away things due to memories. Need t trade them for making more memories!
Yes, yes to everything that you said. Our 10yo was diagnosed with Aspergers two years ago and it changed everything about the way that I homeschool. We spent the first few years in tears (both he and I) every day. Since I have learned to simplify and to teach in a way that he “gets”, our schooling has become a joy. Not that every day is perfect or that I ever stop learning how to best work with him, but it is so much better than it used to be!
Our lives do not feel simple right now! With my sister who is recovering from a brain injury, her 4 yr old son, and our own two kids it feels quite the opposite. I would love this book!
I could use some ways to clean out mental clutter! 🙂 Also, our house needs an overhaul that would lead to some peace and simplicity
Things that need to be simplified – the meal plan, the toy closet, DHs work schedule (but we can’t change that!)
Great article! I can’t think of a single area of our home life that doesn’t need some simplifying, but too much “stuff” is probably at the top of the list, followed closely by schedule clutter. Two kids, multiple sports and activities, and not much time for lounging and playing. We’re working on paring things down in both areas, but it’s a struggle — this book sounds like it would help!!
Thanks for sharing! It is so encouraging to hear that not everyone is perfect. Sounds like an amazing book!
I’m already enjoying the benefits of saying ok to a “co- op ” this year, but I’m continually working on simplifying the home stuff (cleaning, cooking and laundry) for our family of 8.
We recently moved states away and are temporarily staying with my husband’s mother while his new business gets off the ground. Homeschooling here, along with everything else, feels like chaos!
This book had been in my ‘to read’ list for quite a while! Thanks!
I have a child that is dealing with anxiety and I think the less I say the better but I am not always good with that.
I’m thinking less toys, less screen time, less possessions. Thank you so much for the inspiration and invitation to simplicity. I do love that word but often sstruggle to bring it to life.
Clutter and Netflix. I think we would enjoy less distractions. Thank you for this article.
This book sounds like one that might provide helpful insight. We are currently trying to juggle all the stressors and clutter and simplify life for my 2 year old son. As first time parents it seems so easy to get caught up in all the “must have’s” or “must do’s” when in reality less is more.
We really need to declutter. Some days it feels like our house has shrunk, but really we just have too much unnecessary junk.
Enjoyed this article. We are working on cutting out a lot of unnecessary extras (including clutter) and simplifying life so we can truly enjoy our time together, our homeschooling and our down time.
I definitely need to simplify. I also have a child with some “special” circumstances, and have found so many times- less IS more- or at least better. I need to improve in the area of a living that though, need to find a way to slow down life and stop the madness! Loved reading this, and would love to get my hands on a copy of the book!
I’ve been trying to simplify our lives in many areas. It is hard with church planting though because we have to do so much. The main area I want to focus on now is our day to day schedule for the kids. I need to prioritize schooling and cut out a few things so the kids are simply outside more.
Honestly, I think all four of those areas could use some simplifying around here! Thank you for sharing your experience. Sometimes, I think, in this world it’s hard to even imagine another way. I would love to read this book!
I would love to win this. The older I get the more I crave simplicity in everything I do. Esp with homeschooling our three children.
I would love this book! I keep talking about simplifying, but need a guide!
I need to read this! You described my son with aspergers! We need to simplify our home. We have two special needs boys and two younger siblings. It is hard to keep up with organizing when we,just have too much!
While my own 3 daughters are way past the age I would need this book for (15, 18, and almost 20!) I am Kindergarten teacher in a small, private school. I only have a class of 6 for our full-day K program this year and I’m trying my best to give each child personally what they need. Since I can in this kind of setting! Do you think this book would be a good read for me? While I’m not necessarily parenting these kids, I’m teaching them and some of that sure feels like parenting!
Thank you for this, amazing timing. I’m homeschooling 5 ages 9 through 8 months. My hubby works full time, plus assistant pastor & musician. His mother has cancer, we minister to our neighbour kids in our home every weekend and whenever else they sneak over the fence, etc etc. I’ve spent this week attempting a huge decluttering, and loving the results. Still trying to let go of children’s books, as we don’t have much shelf space, but I love books! Thanks for writing this piece =)
I meant to say, when life is up to my eyes and threatening to go over my head, a calm, tidy, uncluttered home makes a huuuuge difference to my coping, and a much nicer environment to live in and for hubby to come home to =)
We loved simplicity parenting. It is a fabulous book. We read it last year and went through a major haul of simplifying and it was refreshing. Today however I was just noticing how much busyness has crept it’s way back in. Guess it’s time to revisit the book and revisit the simpler lifestyle as well. 🙂
Btw, love following your posts. We are first time homeschoolers and unschooling specifically speaks to me. But I’m having a hard time “letting go” so to speak. Reading your experiences helps me see it is possible. 🙂 Thanks!
I think we’ve always struggled with simpifying the day to day – as the urgent often crowds out the important. When we were developing StoryMoment[dot]com- a resource for moms and dads to use to gain a little time and perspective in the day through engaging audio stories for their children – simplification was one of our end goals. And its helped. Getting those few extra minutes when the kids are listening to Honza and Dash or The Fox Family – gives us the chance to stop and think – is this how we want the day to go?
We wanted to be able to
I am trying so hard to simplify our home!! Does anyone else struggle with books?!? I can’t seem to get rid of any because I think it’s important to read but yet I think we have so many my kids feel overwhelmed at the choices.
The kids’ toys are crazy right now! Besides feeling like I’m constantly paring down (without buying more!), they still seem to multiply! Thanks for the recommended reading.