To take this approach to parenting a toddler?

[Judinle]

DS is two. Since I went back to work when he was one, the three days he has at home (not at nursery) are always out of the house. We have a couple of hours eating breakfast and getting ready and then we shoot off somewhere… National trust, park, shopping centre, out for lunch, walk, swimming… whatever.

Recently I’ve noticed other mums commenting that I’m ’always out’ and ‘doesn’t ds ever have time at home.’ I would say once a week but not every week there may be one afternoon of a couple of hours where he’s at home but usually I get back right before dinner so again it’s dinner bath and bed with maybe 30 mins playing around that. Am I doing something wrong here? The reason I go out is I find it less stressful than at home. The idea of a day at home with him terrifies me a bit! Is this approach bad for him?

I'm a sahm. My toddler goes out every morning (toddler group, toddler gym, park, library etc) then we have a couple of hours at home in the afternoon before the school run to get her brother. Best of both worlds - it doesn't have to be out all day or a terrifying day at home op. There is a middle ground!

Yes, surely you need to reflect on this.
Just relax! Kids don't need entertainment every instead of the day! But there are fun things to do at home like baking, painting, legs
Having said that, all mums know how you feel. Ultimately, do what's right for you and don't feel judged by others

I definitely think it's child dependent. My eldest (who has now been diagnosed with ASD) was happy at home but required constant entertainment and involvement. We baked a lot and did crafts but I had no chance or doing anything like chores. We went out quite a lot. He can't occupy himself not because he hadn't learnt to, but simply because be can't.

OP it really doesn’t matter what others think. Just do what works for you and your child. Everyone is different so if you and DC are the sort that prefer being out and about then just get on with that. Totally fine if others are more homebody types or if they are a mix.

Who says that baking and painting are fun things to do though? Maybe in your world but certainly not in mine

After spending lockdown inside with a two year old for two months or however long it was... That was enough for me to detest playing and try to get out and about as much as possible.
Now I have a 6 year old and a toddler and we have a fairly good mix. The little boy enjoys colouring etc at home but there's a fair bit of screen time to be honest. However we get out and we are very busy and energetic when out.

Yeah totally get what you mean about being bored and stressed out at home. With a toddler it can get like that. I feel you and it sounds like you’re doing an amazing job! All credit for allowing him to be out exploring the world 🙏