Posted on 05/18/2018
If you have more than one child — or more than one person in your family — you've probably noticed that each person approaches the beach a little differently than others. In his simple poem, entitled "maggie and milly and molly and may," e.e. cummings describes for different girls who enjoy different aspects of the beach. (We're not the only ones enraptured by this brief, insightful poem; check out this adorable animation or this brightly illustrated printable.) Whichever girl you most resemble, make sure to remember that your way to delight in the pleasures of the beach might not be the same as others — and that's okay! Who knows?! Maybe these fictional girls — or your own kids — can even show you a new way to have fun on your next beach day!
Sensory Experiences
The first girl in the poem escapes into the sensory experience of a singing shell. Of course, the beach provides many other sensory experiences into which you can become immersed. The beach offers a variety of textures, ranging from dry and wet sand to stones and, of course, water. The sight of water has long been appreciated for its soothing, therapeutic effects, which can be amplified when coupled with the sounds of the waves lapping up onto the shore and seagulls in the air. The fragrance and taste of saltwater air may or may not accompany your own beach experience, but the scent of sunblock and the taste of a special beachfront snack can certainly add to the day.
Relational Connections
That second girl isn't nearly into the setting itself she is connecting with the living creatures around her. Maybe that living creature isn't an animal, but another child, or even you, as a parent. Maybe the idea of uninterrupted time flipping through a magazine or just vegging on the beach appeals to you more than playing with your child, but don't miss out on that opportunity to connect. When your child has memories of a beautiful setting, coupled with quality time with family and friends is something that can enrich your child's appreciation of nature and help fortify their hearts for whatever not-so-appealing settings they are bound to endure.
Adventurous Opportunities
The quieter pleasures of the beach are completely lost on some people. Like the third girl in the poem, they're always playing or chasing or being chased and delight in feigning fear. You'll hear plenty of squeals and laughter and see lots of sand flying and water splashing from this type. It's not the only way to have fun at the waterfront, but it'd definitely a popular one!
Sentimental Keepsakes
You don't have to spend a dime to take home a few souvenirs from your time at the beach. Shells, stones, driftwood—just about anything can become part of your sentimental child's growing collection. To display items, check out some of the ideas we posted about here.
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