Providing and participating aren't the same

We play a lot of roles to provide for our children. Taxi driver. Laundry manager. Housekeeper. Chef. Executive assistant.

On a road trip with my children over the past few weeks, I realised how easy it is for me to stay in those providing roles, when what my children actually want is for me to take part in whatever they're doing.

One morning stands out.

My children were in a woodland at the back of someone's house, and I chose to join them. Over the next two hours, we built a den, traipsing through the wood to find big sticks and then decorating it with bark and pine cones.

It was a beautiful moment as we played alongside each other. It was also surprisingly good for me too, as I discovered a sense of ease and enjoyment I can often miss in adult life.

Providing and participating aren't the same. My children need me to provide, and sometimes they're longing for me to join in. And I might need it, too.

What types of play do you enjoy most with your kids?

The next time you're between jobs, take a moment to notice what opportunities present themselves to enter into your kids' play, even just for 5 minutes.

And I get it. Role playing afternoon tea with Barbies remains a struggle for me. Any hints welcome :)