Sweat the small stuff

I am a TED Talk junkie! Its my daily fix. No coffee for this Seattle-ite, just TED – strong, well-brewed

innovative thinking for life in today's world. A couple of days ago, I watched Rory Sutherland espouse the value of 'sweating the small stuff'. Sutherland argues that big organizations, especially the government and even smaller groups of people working together believe that big problems deserve big, glamorous solutions and big budgets. Instead, he refocuses attention on the small stuff that goes a long way. While the talk is grounded in Sutherland's advertising background it makes a point for all avenues of life.

Listening to the talk got me thinking about how when working with children whether as an educator or parent or in a different role, it is all about the small stuff. Children are great role models of remaining focused on the here and now, the little details — the bugs, the clouds, the red car, the mailman, the limping dog, the raindrops in the puddle. Through their immediate and urgent response to every moment of life, children teach how adults can interact with them.

Sweating the small stuff is what has helped me catch problems with children before they even begin. A shrugged shoulder as one kid walks into school or a hanging head during a class are the little stuff that invite us adults into connection with them. While few older children might admit to what is really going on, the slightest acknowledgment, of being seen by someone is all they need. Sometimes, it is just a nod, even a half-smile, a virtual hug, that's all it takes to cheer a child up.

Isn't that what we all really need? The small acknowledgments and conveniences, of being noticed and cared for in little moments. I know it when I see it on my partner's face as he walks up the steps of the house. If I stand by the door and open it for him, he knows he is home and so do I. That is all it takes to feel at home … how lovely.