look mommy look

There’s no one more demanding
Than a tot with something to show
They want to be seen, heard, understood
Need mom’s attention; all systems go!
 
Being interrupted
Smack in the middle of a task
Derails one’s train of thought
But that is just how children ask
 
Kids will announce on repeat
What they really want mom to see
Might be a stone or a spin kick
But ‘til you look, you can’t go free!
 
Let’s assume you’re catching up
Having small talk with a friend
But the convo is cut short when kids
Request you watch them play pretend
 
“Look, I’m a dinosaur, mama!
With T-Rex roaring that’s distinct
The adults stand there, confused, cut-off
And their chit-chat becomes extinct
 
A good read outside on a hot day
Mom judges handstands by the pool
“Watch this, mom!” “Mine too, mommy!”
Loses her spot, but keeps her cool
 
Sitting in the doctor’s office
When the MD has news to share
“Look at this face I’m making, mom!”
Kids make it clear that they don’t care
 
An important call comes in
Mama’s been waiting for this news
The tot yells “Look!” Mom whispers “Shh!”
Hand gestures signal silent cues
 
There’s no doubt that it’s annoying
To have your focus put on ice
Then respond well to disruption
By being patient, kind, and nice
 
Gentle parenting, the new style
Maintains how mama should proceed
It’s lovely, but when real life hits
Raw emotions take the lead
 
In the moment it’s not easy
To use the lessons from the books
Especially when mom digs deep
Only to hear, “Look mommy look!”