Dear Fellow Parent at the Playground on Saturday,
I felt compelled to reach out after witnessing a moment between our kids. Do you remember me? I was the father of the child in the pink dress.
As we arrived at the playground, my little one was practically bouncing with excitement. I asked, “Are you sure you want to wear that dress today?” Without hesitation, they exclaimed, “Yes! I want to show everyone how beautiful I look in this dress!”
It was an important moment for both of us. They had never worn a dress outside before, but I chose to support their choice. Who am I to stifle their joy?
The excitement was palpable as they ran towards your daughter and her friend, twirling and shouting, “Do you like my dress? Can I play with you?” Seeing their unfiltered joy was a beautiful reminder of how precious childhood innocence is. They sparkled with happiness, radiating like a star. I wish they could hold onto that feeling forever.
But I worry. Society often discourages such unrestrained joy, especially when it challenges norms. As adults, we rarely express ourselves with such enthusiasm. Unfortunately, I know that as my child grows, they may become more self-conscious about their choices.
Your daughter, along with her friend, seemed a bit hesitant to engage, perhaps due to age or unfamiliarity. I recall my heart sinking when I heard your daughter say, “I don’t want to play with a boy in a dress.” In that moment, I felt a surge of frustration.
Yet, when your daughter remarked to you, “Daddy, that boy is wearing a dress,” your response struck me: “Well, you’re wearing pants, aren’t you?” That was a moment of pure kindness, and it resonated deeply with me.
As a fellow parent, I share your desire for our children to be happy. While I worry about how my child’s love for princess dresses might someday lead to hurt, for now, they are simply enjoying it.
Thank you for fostering an environment of acceptance for my child. Your response encouraged not just them, but also your daughter to embrace differences. I know that as they navigate the world, there will be challenges to their self-expression. It is a daunting thought, but supporting their happiness is worth the risk.
I appreciate your role in helping my child experience joy. Your kindness has inspired me to be a better parent.
Thanks for being that dad.
If you’re interested in more insights on parenting, check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination, or explore other topics related to fertility at Make A Mom. And for more detailed discussions about parenting challenges, take a look at this post.
Summary:
In an open letter addressed to a fellow dad at the playground, the author reflects on the joy and innocence of their child wearing a princess dress and the societal pressures that may dampen such self-expression. The interaction with the other dad provided a moment of acceptance that strengthened the author’s resolve to support their child’s happiness.