I have to admit something: I find playing with my child to be quite the chore. There, I said it. Don’t get me wrong—I adore my son, but engaging in playtime can feel tedious and, frankly, a bit dull. As an only child, he can entertain himself well, but there are moments when he insists that I join in. I do, though I often wish I could be doing just about anything else.
Having been an only child myself, I understand the loneliness and boredom that can come from playing alone. But now that I’m on the other end of the equation, I realize how much harder it is. Playing with a preschooler is like riding a rollercoaster—one moment you’re zooming along, and the next, he’s changed the game entirely. Keeping up with his whims and the rules of his imaginary world can lead to meltdowns, draining the fun out of it for both of us.
Quality time with my son is precious, but I’d prefer to be “doing” something rather than just playing one-on-one. For energetic kids like mine, outdoor play is essential. I love taking him to the playground, where he can interact with other children. This not only gives him a chance to socialize but also provides me with a much-needed break from being his sole entertainer. Plus, instead of climbing on me, he can tackle the jungle gym—definitely a win-win.
When we arrive at the playground, my son lights up, exclaiming, “My friends are here!” even if they’re complete strangers. Just in case we find ourselves alone, I always pack some toys in his backpack. Sometimes, he prefers to play solo, and having a few items on hand keeps him engaged. As long as he’s happy, I’m content to sit back and relax.
The best part? I can take a seat on a bench (ideally in the shade) and watch him run around. I’ll join in occasionally—sliding down or pushing him on the swing—but most of the time, I relish the chance to check my phone without being interrupted every few minutes.
Being at home together all day means I’ve become his primary playmate, which can lead to frustration on both sides. My son often takes on a bossy role, directing how we should play, and I find it challenging to be bossed around by a little dictator. It’s essential for him to learn these lessons from peers rather than just from me. After all, natural consequences are part of growing up.
This is why I value playdates so much. It’s crucial for an only child to interact with other kids. My son is still learning about sharing, which is difficult when he’s not used to it. Being around other children encourages him to step out of his comfort zone, which is vital for his development. Plus, it allows me to interact with other adults, which I desperately need. I can only listen to so many YouTube videos or play with toy trains before I want to disappear under the blankets.
And just to clarify, I do put my foot down and play with my child, even if it means enduring an hour of being ordered around. I understand that as an only child, he is developing his creativity and imagination, which is already vivid at his age. We don’t always have to cater to their every whim; sometimes, just being present is enough. This can mean taking turns in games, allowing him to play independently, or simply sitting nearby to provide reassurance.
I’ve gained a newfound appreciation for my own parents who played with me, even when they might not have wanted to. They never expressed their reluctance, but now I understand their perspective. After all, there’s only so much of Candy Land you can handle before reaching your limit. But as parents of only children, we push through, even when our delightful kids test our patience.
Ultimately, when given the choice, I prefer outings to the playground, library, or even a nearby fast-food play area. Sometimes, a parent just needs a breather.
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In summary, parenting an only child can make playtime both rewarding and challenging. While I sometimes struggle with the demands of play, I recognize the importance of social interactions and creative play for my son’s development. Balancing one-on-one engagement with opportunities for independence is key, and it’s essential to create a supportive environment where he can thrive.