Life is fast-paced. It is nice to actually stop and 'smell the roses' as the old saying goes. So busy rushing the children off to school, off to work, after-school activities, soccer, dancing, piano lessons homework, dinner, bath, bed. Does that routine sound familiar?
Many of us are living a whirlwind with no time to just stop for a moment, take stock and look at what is really wonderful in this world. I've found a little time spent relaxing, sitting together with the children, just watching our goldfish each day rewarding.
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| The goldfish market at Mongkok (Photo credit: Wikipedia) |
I want the children to grow up understanding commitment. Trends and fads can easily take over every part of our lives, from the groceries we buy, the clothes we wear to the home we live in. The term 'disposable society' creeps into our vocabulary all too frequently.
Our young children have the job of feeding our goldfish. The feeding ritual itself is a lesson for children. Not only the commitment to feeding the fish daily, but they learn that variety is important to the health of the fish. Even goldfish need their fruit and vegetables. A little zucchini and peas help to keep their bodies healthy, just like ours. Reinforcing the message of the importance of good nutrition.
They help with the weekly task of cleaning the fish tank. Being diligent with aquarium care and keeping the tank clean is vitally important to the health of the fish.
I love the deeper lessons our children are learning from taking care of their fish. Unlike cats & dogs these pets can't go to the door when they need to go outside or want to go for a walk. Goldfish are completely reliant on our diligence for their needs. If we let them down we possibly cut their lives short. Their lives are completely dependent on our care.
The great thing about goldfish is that they are relatively hardy, particularly the comet breed. These fish are very lively and add great color to the tank. The tails of the comet are 3/4 the length of the body of the fish and so look magnificent when added to an aquarium.
Overcoming society's 'disposable' attitude can be difficult. Children are conditioned from a very early age to 'throw away' things that are used, or imperfect.
All too often a goldfish meets an untimely end and is disposed of down the toilet. With diligence, attention and a little knowledge, this can often be avoided.
With care, we can nurse your pet back to health. A small hospital tank can be set up to isolate and treat the sick fish. It's a rewarding experience to see the fish recover and go back to his home with the other fish.
We go to the computer and research together. Setting up a breeding tank, learning and watching the cycle of life is another important lesson in caring and nurturing.
Keeping goldfish is a way of installing a caring attitude to nature. The lessons for our children are invaluable: commitment, responsibility, nature's life cycle and the importance of caring for life.
Apart from providing a wonderful addition to our home, these fish give our family so much more than the meager attention and care needed for their survival.
For children, and those new to learning how to take care of goldfish, you may find this link helpful. http://www.howtotakecareofgoldfish.com
There you'll find information to help in choosing aquariums, food, and necessities for your aquarium. You'll learn about types of goldfish and how to identify goldfish illnesses as well as treatments. All the information and resources necessary to keep your fish healthy. Article Source: EzineArticles |
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