Surplus to requirements... Children growing up

[Filmtalk]

I feel like a spare wheel. Obviously my children still need me....but in terms of entertainment they need me less and less. Today they played together at home and watched a bit of TV. Now we are out and they have pretty much disappeared off in the park. I'm nearby on a bench.

It's not like they are teenagers yet, still need me around.

We still have times where they pay games/ go to the cinema together or when I'm part of the game etc but often they are in a made up world that really is just for kids.

Whilst I was typing they came and got me to push them on a big tyre swing thing but they've gone again.

Obviously I'm not looking for my kids to entertain me, it's great that they can find things to do... But I'm bored!!

I know, I get it. I really do. It's great. I just need to find a way to occupy myself now!

Well what have you always enjoyed? Hobby, reading, cooking, exercise? Do more of that! I think it's good for kids to see their parents as human beings with their own interests rather than devoted slaves to the childrens' needs forever.

Mine are 3 and 1 and I can't wait for this stage!

I always make sure they know if I've been out with friends or to cinema etc when they are at their dads. I do devote my time to them entirely when they are home though. I guess I could read. Not sure what else I can do.

I do work.

I'm at a similar stage. Bittersweet!

Make time for family meals, boardgames and chats before bed - they still need us a lot!

I can focus on my job a bit more now they're a bit more independent

Family board games? Weekend trips to Cinema/National Trust/Museums/ Bowling/Ice Starting/Swimming? Perhaps cook together as a family.
I’d be tempted to read a good book... haven’t had the brain space since baby #1 game along 😂

Before kids I wasn't great at hanging out at home, was always out doing things.

Those are all things we often do, but more and more they want their own space and like having time at home to chill out rather than constant outings.

Silversun my 9yo can nip to the corner shop for milk and can make coffee!! Hang in there

Mine are 20 and 16 and I'm not needed for much at all now.

It is very strange. Domestic stuff, lifts for the 16 yr old, money and making sure they're both ok and happy.

That's why I read 43 books last year!

43 books is impressive!

I will definitely read more.

Our DS is 11 and I was starting to feel the same OP. We got a puppy, why on earth ive tied myself back down when I was just getting some free time back I don’t know! I’m joking really, we’re 10 weeks in now and everything’s starting to settle, I’m really enjoying walking and training him. DS is happy to accompany on walks when he ordinarily wouldn’t had it just been the 2 of us so my suggestion is to get a dog. Great company, keeping you moving and great to snuggle up on the sofa with.

Sounds lovelyWoody.