Updated: Jan. 28, 2015
Originally Published: Sep. 17, 2012
What began as an exciting summer trend quickly morphed into a captivating pastime. Unlike the fleeting fascination with Silly Bandz from previous years, the Rainbow Loom required genuine focus and skill to master. My daughter, Mia, found herself engrossed, dedicating countless hours to crafting bracelet after bracelet. She created them for family members, friends, and anyone who appreciated her handiwork—it was a refreshing spin on a classic craft.
However, as time passed, changes emerged. Mia’s conversations shifted as she heard her friends at summer camp rave about more intricate stitches. The once-popular single and fishtail designs were suddenly overshadowed by the likes of zipper and starburst patterns. Her peers were learning new techniques through video tutorials online, and soon enough, ten-year-old Ava became a sensation, stealing computer time away from Mia. This was the first strike against her beloved loom. Nevertheless, Mia continued to use it in various settings—waiting rooms, tennis practice, and before bedtime. I remained supportive of her creative outlet.
Last week, her brothers expressed a desire to join in on the fun. At first, it was heartwarming to see Leo pick up the stitches with incredible speed, relying solely on his fingers. Mia took on the role of instructor, leading looming sessions in the playroom after dinner. I felt a surge of pride watching them work side by side, deeply focused on their craft.
But oh, how quickly things shifted. Instead of the occasional stray rubber bands, I was now finding hundreds scattered throughout our home. They were on the porch, in my cereal bowl, stuffed in every pocket, and even discovered in the dog’s mess—so that’s where the c-clips disappeared! The trio became absorbed in making, trading, and breaking bracelets, leading to endless squabbles. It felt like every conversation revolved around the Rainbow Loom.
The silver lining is that such obsessions tend to fade over time. Our history with past trends, like abandoned Jibbitz and Webkinz, proves this. The question remains—when will this phase end? Because honestly, it can’t come soon enough.
For those interested in exploring more about the journey of parenthood, check out this informative article on at-home insemination kits, or if you’re looking for male fertility support, this link provides great resources. Additionally, for a week-by-week guide on pregnancy, visit this excellent resource.
In summary, the Rainbow Loom experience exemplifies how quickly children’s interests can evolve, often leading to a chaotic yet memorable phase in parenting.