I understand that the trend of free-range parenting is gaining momentum, and I can appreciate its appeal. However, it’s not a feasible choice for me at the moment. I didn’t wake up one day with a desire to hover over my child; rather, he’s the one who insists on my presence. He misses me when I’m at work and eagerly wants to play with me at the park after I pick him up. Plus, he’s just a toddler! I wasn’t even aware I was a helicopter parent until someone pointed out that my active involvement was annoying other parents at the park.
I would love to simply sit back and take a breather, but my 2-year-old won’t allow it. I often hear, “Mom, get off the bench! Come here!” as he tugs at my leg after I finally settle down. Internally, I groan. I would prefer to enjoy my own space and observe his play from a distance, but he insists on having me join in. Why can’t my mere presence be sufficient? I find myself envying those laid-back parents who can just relax.
Interestingly, dads are usually viewed as the fun ones, the wild and adventurous types. But in my household, that’s my role. It’s all fun and games until a toddler drags you off the bench after a long day at work because he wants to dump sand down your shirt.
To all the bench-sitting parents out there, let me assure you—I’m not judging your approach at all. I couldn’t care less if your child is testing her limits. If she tumbles, that’s on you. I let my child fall frequently without making a fuss about it. Okay, that’s not entirely true; most times, I can’t help but chuckle and ask, “Did you fall?” Haha!
It must be nice to relax at the park while chatting with other moms, but I dive into the chaos to cope with the whirlwind of toddler activities. Yes, I have fun! You’ll see me acting like a child myself, racing down slides and encouraging my son to hurry across the bridge.
Don’t worry about my involvement affecting my child’s social skills; he’s got it all covered. He spends his weekdays in preschool from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., five days a week, and even has a little girlfriend whom he kisses goodbye (shoutout to Mia!). So when we’re at the park, he wants to play with me because he thinks I’m entertaining. And guess what? Your child thinks I’m fun too.
Your kid often starts by curiously observing us, assessing whether I’m a threat or just a big kid myself (I’m a bit of both). Gradually, she inches closer until I find myself playing with her too. I keep glancing at you to ensure you don’t misinterpret my intentions.
Let’s extend some understanding to one another. I’m not trying to disrupt your park experience by joining in the fun, and I’m genuinely not judging your choice to relax on the sidelines. In fact, I admire your little break—believe me, we all need it. So please, don’t judge me. Kids find me entertaining, and they won’t let up until I’m fully engaged (literally), pretending to fall down. Falling can be quite funny, after all.
Though entertaining your kids wasn’t my initial plan, it certainly has kept them occupied, hasn’t it? You’re welcome! We have more in common than you realize. So, save me a spot on that bench for when I can finally take a break!
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Summary:
In this humorous reflection on parenting, the author shares her experiences as an active mom who engages fully with her toddler at the park, contrasting her style with that of more laid-back parents. She emphasizes the importance of acceptance among parents and highlights that every approach to parenting has its merits. The article also includes links to resources on home insemination, IVF processes, and expert insights on fertility.