Every morning, my son and daughter rise, prepare breakfast, and head out to see their ducks. This simple routine leads them to spend hours outdoors, filling up their kiddie pool, tending to their gardens, and searching for grubs and worms to feed their new pets.
In the past, such activities would have felt rushed, squeezed in between the demands of everyday life, with little conversation exchanged. However, just the other day, while I sat on our deck working, I heard their voices softly chatting. I quietly approached the railing and observed them sitting together, sharing words as they tossed lettuce to the ducks.
Although I couldn’t hear their exact conversation, the comfortable silences spoke volumes; my children were genuinely enjoying each other’s company. During this period of isolation, when they haven’t been able to see friends or engage with the outside world, these moments of joy have become increasingly frequent – and I wasn’t prepared for that.
All three of my kids are extroverts in their teenage years, a time when friendships and social activities take precedence. They typically relish their independence, often seeking to escape from home life. When their school announced closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I anticipated a difficult adjustment for them. Their days were once filled with interactions with friends, and weekends were dedicated to social plans.
As new updates came through the news, my anxiety grew; I worried about how they would cope with this abrupt change. While they have certainly pushed back against the stay-at-home orders, they have also channeled their energy into making the most of the situation. It has been eye-opening, revealing that they understand the importance of having one another during these challenging times.
Like many families, mine has found a way to bond more closely than ever. They have begun to appreciate the simple pleasure of going for a walk together and cherish our new Saturday lunch tradition, where we eat in the car. They even accompany me to the grocery store, sitting in the backseat to play Minecraft and help with meal planning for the week. Every day, they seem to dream up new projects, from growing algae on the deck to redecorating their rooms or observing a colony of ants on our driveway.
Before the pandemic, they would have spent time at home with minimal interaction, often busy with friends or glued to their phones. There’s no way my three teenagers would have agreed on a restaurant to eat at or volunteered to help with planting an herb garden.
They don’t frequently discuss the current situation, but when they do, it’s evident they share similar feelings and thoughts. They are normalizing each other’s experiences, reminiscing about childhood activities, and revisiting old traditions. Reflecting on this, I realize I underestimated their ability to support one another. They are leaning on each other, and being each other’s company has made a significant impact.
Our lives were previously on autopilot, with my kids barely noticing each other, let alone collaborating on homework. A few months ago, if I had suggested a cozy Friday night of snacks and a movie together, they likely would have dismissed the idea, too preoccupied with keeping a distance while hosting friends.
Now, they seem to be embracing this new lifestyle. They are acknowledging the value of sibling relationships, listening to one another, and appreciating each other in ways they may not have otherwise. They aren’t just tolerating each other; they are intentionally growing closer.
While we all look forward to returning to normalcy, we are aware that the transition will take time. I hope they continue to carry forward some of the connections they’ve built during these past months. They have gotten to know each other in a refreshing way, instead of allowing frustrations and discomfort to create distance.
If this newfound closeness doesn’t last, at least I can cherish the memories of their relationship during this time of uncertainty. Knowing that my children can unite and love each other beautifully amidst hardship is a comfort in itself.
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Summary
This pandemic has unexpectedly brought my children closer together. With more time at home, they are engaging in activities that promote bonding, sharing conversations, and supporting one another. Although they initially resisted the changes, they are now embracing their sibling relationships in meaningful ways. As we look forward to returning to normal, I hope they continue to cherish the connections they’ve forged during this time.