Spirited Essence Works

Let me start by saying this: creativity and parenthood are both beautiful… and bonkers. And trying to do both at the same time? That’s an adventure all its own.

I’ve always believed in including my kids in what I create, not just because it’s convenient (because let’s be honest, sometimes it’s anything but), but because I want them to see that their ideas, their voices, their wild imaginations matter. And truthfully? They inspire more of my work than they’ll ever realize.

That said…it’s not always Pinterest-perfect. Not even close.

Sometimes inviting them into a project means we end up with glitter on the ceiling, flour in our hair, paint on the dog, or a baking “experiment” that turns into a science lesson on what not to do. Sometimes it means stopping mid-project to break up a fight over who gets to crack the next egg or who spilled the vinegar in the volcano. And sometimes it means sitting in the middle of the mess, taking a deep breath, and reminding myself why I wanted to include them in the first place.

But here’s what I’ve learned (so far):

What’s Worked:

• Arts & crafts with purpose. Whether we’re making decorations for the seasons, discussing scenes from one of my stories, or just going wild with stickers and washi tape, it gives them a chance to express themselves and be part of what I’m building.
• Letting them help with recipes and baking. They’ve tested (and taste-tested) everything from our favorite cookies to those now-infamous musk ox cookies from Aurora. Giving them jobs like stirring, measuring, or naming the recipe makes them feel like real contributors.
• Science experiments = fun + learning. From simple baking soda reactions to making “magic potions” and weather jars, science has become a creative playground. They’re learning and I’m inspired, usually at the same time.
• Including their magic and storytelling. One of my favorite parts of involving my kids is how naturally they bring magic into the mix. They believe in Christmas magic, beach adventures with talking animals, and that good energy lives all around us. I love leaning into that with them. Their sense of wonder helps shape the stories I write, and it keeps my own imagination alive and well.

What Hasn’t Worked:

• Trying to rush. Creativity with kids is slow. If I’m on a deadline or trying to get something polished, I’ve learned to carve out solo time. Trying to multitask usually ends in frustration for everyone.
• Expecting mini adults. They’re kids. They aren’t here to keep things neat or follow a timeline — and honestly, that’s part of the magic.
• Forcing it. If they’re not interested, I let it go. Not every moment has to be a project, and that’s okay too.

The truth is blending parenthood and creativity takes patience, deep breaths, and a sense of humor. Deep breaths are extremely important and I have to remind myself sometimes. My kids might throw off my timeline or derail my outline, but they also make my work better. They help me see things through a brighter, sillier, more magical lens. They remind me to play, to laugh, to believe in things that sparkle, and to keep things real.

So no, I don’t always get things done on time. And yes, sometimes I have had to re-do an entire recipe after someone “helped.” But I wouldn’t trade the chaos for anything.

Here’s to the moms and dads trying to create with their kids by their side, one messy, magical, memory-making project at a time.