When my partner was expecting our first child, we made a vow to ensure our little one would be a participant in our lives rather than the other way around. Sure, we were a bit idealistic, caught up in the “we’re going to do this perfectly!” mindset that many soon-to-be parents share. However, we’ve managed to stick to that promise, maintaining our social lives and staying connected with friends. Living in a neighborhood full of parents has even allowed us to enjoy some casual day-drinking with our kids in tow.
But one thing we absolutely do not do is haul our children to weekend-long music festivals. And honestly, it’s for both their well-being and ours.
I personally stepped away from the festival scene when I turned thirty. The relentless crowds and less-than-pleasant porta-potties just didn’t appeal to me anymore. While I still enjoy a great concert, the thought of navigating a sprawling outdoor festival, especially with kids, is overwhelming. After having two children, my perspective hasn’t shifted. I’m eager to share my musical tastes with them, but dragging them to a festival sounds less than enjoyable for any of us!
Recently, an article from PopSugar highlighted parents who take their kids to Coachella, and I must admit, it sounds like a logistical nightmare. One couple mentioned that they’ve brought their daughter along every year since her birth. “We adore her, and she’s totally awesome, so we want her to experience everything we do,” said Laura, one of the parents. “It’s vital for her to be exposed to different cultures and people.”
While I wholeheartedly agree that introducing children to diverse experiences is important, pushing a stroller through a sea of people to catch a glimpse of a band while dodging spilled drinks is not my idea of quality family time. Yes, it’s outdoors, and that might seem like a more suitable environment for kids, but it can quickly become chaotic.
Sometimes, I crave an adult experience without the added responsibility of having my children alongside. Even if I weren’t interested in any grown-up escapades, there are simply some situations where young kids can be more of a hassle than a joy. An outdoor music festival is definitely one of those instances.
If you’re inclined to take your kids along, more power to you, but I’d rather catch that band in a concert hall—after securing a babysitter. And if you’re curious about other parenting topics, you might want to check out this post on Cervical Insemination. Also, for those looking into family planning, Make A Mom offers reputable at-home insemination kits. Plus, if you’re seeking guidance on pregnancy, the World Health Organization provides an excellent resource.
In summary, while some parents may enjoy the festival experience with their kids, I’ll be opting for a more manageable setting to share my cultural interests.
Leave a Reply