For trying to parent a bit less

[Tunamayoforthewin]

Not parent exactly…Dd is 7 and has a very full life-days out, beach, playgrounds, swimming, play dates and friends in the neighbourhood. I do crafts, baking, games, Dh plays with her at times. Ive noticed though she cannot entertain herself at all. She’s an only child and I have a brother and sister, but we didn’t really play together and my mum didn’t play with us or organise activities really.
I remember playing alone, using my imagination and being very happy doing it.
Dd used to do this more when little but struggles with it now.
We are off work at home and it’s very hot where we are. Dh is asleep on the sofa and I’m deliberately lying down upstairs and leaving her to it, to see what she comes up with on her own (she doesn’t have an iPad etc, but does have the tv)
I can hear she’s put spotify on the tv and is fiddling around with paper, so i’m hoping it’s working 🙏
Do your kids use their imagination and play alone?

Yes they do but if you entertain them all the time and fill their days they don’t ever learn to be by themselves and play on their own. Where is the time for your child to do this?

She has been doing it a little during the holidays when it’s just me at home, but begs to play or a friend will come and call her so she doesn’t get that opportunity a lot these days like when she was little.
I was quiet and shy though so was quite happy playing alone sometimes, she’s very outgoing

Yep, kids need time with no 'in your face' stimulation in order to sort of start to get bored, then come up with their own ways of entertaining themselves. Imho it's a vital part of a child's development, and helps them to be resourceful when they're older.