Dear Hovering Parents, You’re Making It Tough for the Rest of Us

home insemination Kit

Hey there, fellow moms! Picture this: I’m at the park, watching my 3-year-old, Max, climb a tall metal ladder. He’s got his arms stretched out like he’s summoning the universe for help. Suddenly, a woman nearby gasps and rushes over, her voice trembling. “Do you know whose child that is?” she asks, panic written all over her face.

“He’s mine,” I reply, a bit bewildered. “And he’s been climbing since he was 2.” Her eyes widen in disbelief, confirming my suspicion. She’s one of those hoverers. You know the type—always ready to swoop in and judge if I don’t keep a watchful eye on my kids. Thanks for ruining my playdate, lady!

The Two Types of Parents

There are two types of parents at the park. I often take my kids there so they can socialize, learn to navigate their surroundings, and explore their limits—like figuring out if they can conquer that intimidating ladder. It’s essential for them to run, scream, and forge friendships while I catch up with my mom friends from a safe distance. That’s right, I’m here to socialize, not to play directly with my kids.

Then there are the hoverers—those moms who view the park as their personal playroom. They follow their kids like shadows, helping them up the slide, bouncing them on the seesaw, and ensuring every rule is strictly followed. No climbing up the slide or testing their own limits, because heaven forbid their child takes a risk. I mean, are we really that worried about a little dirt?

The Hovering Dilemma

I find myself sitting at a picnic table with fellow moms, one of whom is even knitting, when I hear the dreaded faux-nice voice. “Where’s your mommy?” she chirps at my son, Max, as he attempts to climb a platform. Cue my frantic dash to help him because apparently, he can’t figure it out alone.

These hoverers are relentless, enforcing unwritten park rules with a fierce determination. “Up the stairs and down the slide!” they proclaim, giving me the side-eye until I finally have to intervene, even though climbing up the slide is half the fun! They have a list of “no’s” longer than my grocery list: no sticks, no wrestling, no bare feet. And definitely no playing in the mud—oh no, that would set a bad example for their precious little ones.

Encouraging Exploration

I’m not at the park to micromanage my kids; I want them to experience the freedom of exploration. When these hovering moms give me the stink-eye or pick up my child to put him somewhere he can’t reach, it just ruins the whole vibe.

So to my hovering friends, maybe take a break from spotting your child at every turn and join me and the other moms on the bench instead. It’s a lovely spot in the shade, and who knows? Your child might just make some friends and discover the joys of running around and getting a little dirty.

Let’s Embrace Freedom

In the meantime, let’s keep the helicopter parenting to a minimum, shall we? If you’re interested in more parenting discussions, check out this post we have on home insemination. And for those seeking information on fertility, Make a Mom has excellent resources too. Also, if you’re on the journey towards pregnancy, the NHS offers valuable insights.

In summary, let’s embrace a little more freedom in our parenting styles at the park. Kids need to explore, take risks, and yes, even get a little dirty. And while we’re at it, let’s save the hovering for the occasional hug, not every step they take!