Parenting
By Dr. Evelyn Carter
We often accept that infants can be rather uneventful. For the initial months, their primary activities involve sleeping, crying, feeding, and eliminating waste. These repetitive actions are generally tolerated because, after all, you have a new baby. Every tiny movement, from a yawn to a smile, feels monumental, distracting us from the fact that they are essentially immobile beings with erratic sleep schedules.
I once believed that as children grew, they would become more engaging. They progress from rolling over to walking, from cooing to conversing. One might assume that greater mobility and communication would equate to heightened entertainment value. However, this notion is far from accurate.
In reality, toddlers can be exceedingly unexciting. Yes, they are little bundles of energy, but their chosen activities leave much to be desired. Here are a few examples of what my toddlers consider “fun” (and I use that term loosely):
- Standing outdoors: They can derive enjoyment simply from being stationary in the backyard.
- Puzzles: While puzzles can be stimulating, the ones with more than a dozen pieces are preferable. Repeating the same simple puzzle ad nauseam is far from thrilling.
- Playing with dried beans: Providing bowls of dried beans and measuring cups results in hours of bean relocation, which, let’s be honest, is not very riveting.
- Hide and seek: This game involves my 2-year-old hiding under a blanket and giggling until I find him. It lacks complexity and excitement.
These activities can be mind-numbing, draining my mental energy. I find myself wishing for more stimulating endeavors. Perhaps the issue lies with me. Am I the one who is unexciting?
Absolutely not! I consider myself quite entertaining. I enjoy binge-watching reruns of beloved TV shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation, fearing that newer productions won’t meet my expectations. I read memoirs from fascinating female celebrities, perhaps living vicariously through their adventures. I also relish solitary walks in familiar locations, reflecting on the reality that I might not have many friends left.
It dawns on me that my perception of my children’s dullness might stem from my own tendencies. However, I realize I haven’t stifled their growth or limited their potential. I am simply being myself, enjoying quiet evenings with a drink and a nostalgic rom-com or playing Solitaire to wind down. While I may seem unexciting, I possess depth, with interests that can shine in the right social setting.
My children, in their toddler years, are perfectly fine. This phase is temporary. As I have been reminded countless times, they will soon be off to school, exploring the world and developing their interests. With time, their innate curiosity will flourish, leading them to discover new activities and pursuits.
If they choose to engage in simple pastimes, that’s acceptable. What truly matters is their happiness.
For further insights on home insemination and parenting, you can explore related articles like this one on home insemination.
In summary, while toddlers may seem unexciting at times, this stage is simply a part of their development. As parents, we should embrace their current interests and recognize that the future holds much more excitement as they grow.