GIRAFFE JUICE: The Magic of Making Life Wonderful By JP Allen & Marci Winters Illustrated by Tamara LaPorte (2009; Follow Your Joy Press; Hawaii, 136 pgs.)
This is a treasure of a book for children and adults, too. Giraffe Juice invites us to experience an adventure story rooted in a game called “Making Life Wonderful.” Eva, a harmonica and guitar-playing 13-year-old girl, and her two school friends, are guided by one very supportive talking giraffe, Marvel. Together, their trials and successes show the practical and miraculous gifts of Compassionate Communication. Their strategy is in using the magic of “The Making Life Wonderful” Game. The 4 simple steps of Compassionate Communication, AKA Nonviolent Communication (NVC), are carefully and thoughtfully illuminated, woven into a story about how children and adults can learn to get along very well. These are the 4 steps suggested for communicating with your children to bring calm, and kindness, to your interactions. You can also practice them with yourself to transform your own frustrations of unmet needs with empathy, and to help melt inner conflicts. The 4 steps of Compassionate Communication (NVC):
- Observe the situation like a video camera, only assessing what can be seen and heard.
- Establish an understanding of the Feelings present &…
- Guess what Needs, are under the feelings. (Universal needs we all share) and then…if appropriate,
- Request what would meet the true needs in the situation.
It is explained by Marvel, the giraffe in the story, that giraffes have the biggest heart of all land animals, and a strong interest in what is called, “The Making Life Wonderful Game.” This is putting attention on giving and receiving communication in a way that allows everyone’s needs to be met, including the powerful gift of silent witnessing. This is known as “power with” versus “power over.” Everyone’s feelings and needs are taken into account, and a shift occurs towards a win/win game. The game of using blame, or shame, creates losers, so these defeating strategies are replaced with empathy, compassion and deep listening. The emphasis is on finding ways of relating that feel fun, natural and easy. The 4 simple steps to using Compassionate Communication are explained in “Giraffe Says” text boxes within the story. The school bully in the story provides an example of how name calling and giving a judgmental diagnosis of someone can perpetuate problems. Giraffes prefer to observe what they can actually see. By calling someone a derogatory name, or describing a story we are making up in our heads, there can be a sort of violence, or separation created between people that breeds more of the same. In the first step of Compassionate Communication called observation, opinions are replaced with actual real time facts that can be seen and heard. No embellishments and no added evaluations are included. Marvel is the very compassionate talking giraffe in the story who explains that arguments are transmuted into connection with this approach. “Giraffe listening” is being completely silent while someone is speaking to you, bringing your curiosity to what is most important to that person, and guessing what they may be feeling. Focusing on another person’s feelings and needs can help establish those areas of common ground that lead to connection and understanding. This is exactly what happens to Jip, the boy formerly known as the “school bully.” Jip speaks with Marvel and learns some giraffe moves. As Jip becomes sensitized to what his true needs are he changes into a boy who realizes new ways to get what he really wants. His true need is to be engaged and laughing in empathic connection with his friends. He has been bullying his friends, acting out the forceful controlling parenting habits of his mother. Marvel is able to gently propose more options Jip can choose that are rooted in having compassion for his own feelings, and taking action to meet his real needs for friendship and making life wonderful for himself and others. Using “giraffe ears,” one can hear what is in another person’s heart even when their words are potentially hurtful without tuned attention to what feelings and needs are underneath the words. Marvel emphasizes that everyone’s needs matter. As much as giraffes like getting things their way, they include other’s needs as well to create the most magic and wonder in life. The good-feeling energy that becomes electrified inside of us when we make life more wonderful for everyone involved is called “Giraffe Juice.” As Marvel says it best, “When the human heart is full of compassion it is capable of almost anything.”
Read April’s Parenting Tip for a great demonstration: how Hannah Sullivan beautifully negotiated a real life “battle of her two boys,” and how she came through smiling. The boys were empowered, and they all learned something valuable in “An Opportunity Seized.”
Emotional Benefits of Getting Outside
Spending time in nature with your baby can strengthen the bond between you. The simple act of holding your baby close, feeling their warmth, and sharing new experiences together can create strong emotional connections. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce stress and improve your mood. When my littles were extra fussy, I’d take a walk around the neighborhood. Even though I don't live in an area with trails and surrounded by nature, simply behind outside changed everything. A little vitamin D does wonders!
Cognitive Development
Nature is a sensory wonderland for babies. The different sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate your baby’s senses and promote cognitive development. Watching leaves rustle, hearing birds chirp, and feeling the texture of a tree bark can all contribute to their learning and development.
All About Baby Carriers for Nature Adventures
Choosing the Right Baby Carrier
When it comes to selecting the best baby carrier for summer adventures, there are several options to consider.
Types of Baby Carriers:
- Wraps: Perfect for newborns, providing a snug and secure fit.
- Slings: Ideal for quick and easy use, offering good ventilation.
- Soft Structured Carriers: Versatile and comfortable for both parent and baby, suitable for longer trips.
Factors to Consider:
- Baby’s Age and Weight: Ensure the carrier is appropriate for your baby’s size and weight. For example, Ergobaby’s Embrace Newborn Carrier is perfect for the fourth trimester where baby is small and you’re looking for an easy way to stay close. As they grow, you’ll want to upgrade to an all-position carrier that’s meant for growing babies.
- Parent’s Comfort and Ergonomics: Look for carriers with padded shoulder straps and lumbar support if you’re planning on longer outings.
- Ease of Use: Choose a carrier that is easy to put on and take off.
- Climate and Breathability: Opt for carriers made of breathable fabrics to keep you and your baby cool in hot weather.
Safety Tips:
- Proper Positioning: Ensure your baby is seated correctly, with their legs in an "M" position and their head should be close enough to kiss.
- Checking for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect your carrier for any signs of damage.
- Ensuring Adequate Support: Make sure the carrier provides proper support for your baby’s head and neck.
Exploring Nature with a Baby Carrier
Ideal Spots for a Nature Walk with Baby
- Parks and Gardens: Great for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Nature Trails and Forests: Perfect for more adventurous outings.
- Beaches and Lakesides: Wonderful for enjoying the water and sand, with the right carrier.
Activity Ideas
- Hiking: Enjoy a scenic hike with a hiking baby carrier that offers support and storage.
- Bird Watching: Use your carrier to keep your baby close while you explore and observe wildlife.
- Picnics: A carrier can free up your hands, making it easier to carry picnic supplies.
Advantages of Using Strollers for Nature Adventures
While baby carriers are fantastic for mobility and closeness, depending on the adventure of choice you might want to be a stroller along too.
There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller: This is typically the stroller parents thing of buying for all its versatility.
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller:These compact strollers are perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Jogging stroller: Designed for parents who want to combine fitness with outdoor adventures.
- Double stroller: Designed for parents with multiple kids, especially twins.
- Car seat carrier: These strollers connect to a specific car seat. We don't typically recommend these as they can be unsafe for baby and uncomfortable for parents who are pushing.
Learn more about the types of strollers and which one would be best for you.
Benefits of Bringing a Stroller
- Storage Space for Gear: Ample room for carrying all your essentials like a diaper bag, beach toys and more.
- Shade and Weather Protection: Built-in canopies to shield your baby from the sun when they are lounging.
- Options: If you have more than one kid, you can stroll with one and carry the other. Or, if you’re getting warm or your little one is getting fussy, you can switch up their position from stroller to carrier or vice versa.
Safety Tips for Strollers
- Ensure your stroller is in good working condition. Make sure buckles are still buckling and that there are no rips or holes that could compromise your baby’s safety.
- Use sunshades or bug nets to protect your little one’s skin.
- Securing the baby properly: always buckle up your baby for safety even if you think they are old enough to go without the buckle.
Combining Baby Carriers and Strollers
For the ultimate flexibility, consider using both a baby carrier and a stroller on your outings.
Combining both options allows you to adapt to different situations. Use the carrier for more rugged trails and switch to the stroller for smoother paths or when your baby needs a nap.
Transition Tips
- Smooth Transitions: Plan stops where you can easily switch from carrier to stroller.
- Pack Light: Only bring essentials to make transitions easier.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
Planning Ahead
- Route Planning: Choose baby-friendly trails and parks. Check local mom groups or outdoor groups and get recommendations for the best outings for kids.
- Check Weather Conditions: Avoid extreme heat or unpredictable weather. Even with our most breathable carriers, when it’s hot, it’s hot. And having two bodies against each other in the heat will be naturally hot and sticky already.
- Packing Checklist: Include diapers, snacks, water, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. These all-position carriers have storage pockets where you can fit some of the items easily!
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Pack healthy snacks to keep energy levels up and bring plenty of water for both you and baby.
Summer adventures with your baby are a wonderful way to create lasting memories and enjoy the beauty of nature together. From baby carriers to strollers, Ergobaby products are designed to provide comfort and ease for both you and your little one. So, gear up, get outside, and explore the world with your baby by your side.
Ready to embark on your own summer adventures? Check out Ergobaby’s range of baby carriers and strollers to find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Visit our website today and start planning your next outdoor excursion!