When I take my kids to the playground, I’m assuming that I can just let them loose. This is going to sound horrible, but I do not want to play with them.
I’m taking them to the playground so that they can play with other children.
Inevitably, as soon as we enter the playground Ari asks me the same question each time:
“Can I go on the swing?”
It’s like the curse of death.
Look at him! He’s so happy on the swing!
But here’s the thing, if he goes on the swing, that means that I cannot sit down on the playground bench and space out. I have to do work. I am required to stand there with him and push him.
Not only do I have to stand there and push him, but generally where I am standing is in the sunlight, so I am uncomfortable standing there and pushing him. Meanwhile, he’s having the best time ever!
I feel guilty. I know I should entertain his love of the swings. I know I should do that because it’ll make him happy, but I am exhausted. What I want to do is take a break! We are at the playground so that my kids can play and I can sit down.
Am I alone in this?
Am I a giant asshole?
Please don’t say yes.
I already feel guilty.
Do you push your kids on the swings?