Parenting can be overwhelming, and it’s perfectly normal to feel a sense of guilt when it comes to engaging with your little ones. This week, we tackle the struggle of a mom who finds playing with her kids to be more of a chore than a joy.
Dear Home Insemination Kit,
I’m a stay-at-home mom with two young children, ages five and three. Since I’m with them all day, I feel like I should dedicate a lot of time to play. However, it genuinely feels torturous for me. My daughter constantly tells me what to do during our playtime, and my son wants me to crawl around or chase him—which I never enjoyed, even as a kid! It’s not that I don’t want to be with them; it’s just that their version of time together feels draining. Then, I’m hit with mom guilt because I think I shouldn’t feel this way. What can I do?
I completely relate to your feelings. I’ve been there too, and I can assure you that you’re not alone. Many parents struggle with the demands of playtime, especially when it feels more like a directive than a fun activity. It’s exhausting to pretend to enjoy something that you dread.
Suggestions for Enjoyable Playtime
One suggestion is to find activities that you can enjoy with your kids, ideally ones that require minimal effort on your part. For example, when my kids had a play doctor kit, I would lie on the bed while they “examined” me. This kept them occupied while I got a little rest—win-win! Activities like making pretend meals in their toy kitchen or letting them draw on your back can also be enjoyable without being overly taxing.
Another great option is to involve others who genuinely enjoy playing with kids. If you have family members or friends who love to engage with children, don’t hesitate to let them take the lead during playtime. This way, you can enjoy their company without feeling the pressure to entertain.
Lastly, consider quality time that doesn’t necessarily involve traditional play. Going for walks, baking together, reading stories, or watching funny videos can create valuable bonding moments without the stress of playing. Kids truly just want your presence, and it’s the time spent together that matters more than the activity itself.
As someone who has navigated these waters, I can assure you that a lack of playtime hasn’t harmed my relationships with my kids. They are now tweens and teens, and we share a strong bond that goes beyond any playtime guilt.
Additional Resources
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In summary, remember that it’s okay to not love every aspect of parenting. Focus on quality time that works for both you and your kids, and don’t hesitate to lean on others for playtime help. Your kids value your presence more than any specific activity.