My daughter usually carries on a running conversation with anyone in near proximity to her, be it stuffed bear, plastic plates, or me. Lately, I feel that I never have enough time just to sit down and play with her, i.e. enter whatever fantasy she is acting out at that moment.
So what I’ve been doing is what someone in my parent/toddler group calls ‘feeding the meter’. I drop by and take on a brief, supporting role in her play of the moment, and then quietly bow out after a few minutes and go back to whatever I am cooking, washing, or putting away.
I do this every 5 or 10 minutes and it seems to be enough for her. It provides enough outside stimulation for her to continue on her own for a while. And it gives me the sense that I am actually participating in her play life.
I wish I didn’t have to do this. I feel guilty that I don’t do more. But at least I’m not watching TV and ignoring her altogether. It’s the best I can do and it will have to be enough.
{ 2 } Comments
Clearly your effort shows just how much you do care and I’m sure that Rada appreciates everything you do – and it’s not like you have nothing else going on!!! Just keep in mind, though, that the day will come quicly when she’s too busy with her friends, schoolwork etc., to spend time with you so be sure to take advantage of every second you can get!
Plastic plates!!??
Post a Comment