Introverted Parent/Extroverted Child!

[rambliroses]

Hi there,

Is anyone else an introverted person who is also a parent? I have always been very quiet, I find social situations really difficult and also get really drained being around people and need a lot of time alone/quiet. It's never been a problem for me- I have just worked my life around it- i.e. I've always worked in quiet places like libraries or offices where I can work with my headphones in, I have like minded friends who I generally meet up with one on one or in small groups and I've arranged my social life to do things to avoid big clubs, festivals etc which I've tried and don't really enjoy.

The issue now is that I have a DD aged 5 who is the total opposite of me- she is very outgoing, gets energised from being in big groups, loves being around others, going to big parties, gatherings etc. I love her and admire her personality and respect the fact she is different from me. I try my best to give her what she needs but I feel like I'm failing her in some way as she is an only child so I keep trying to find opportunities for her to get out and socialise but I find the whole thing really, really difficult and a major struggle.

I want to find some coping strategies because she is starting school in september and I am aware there is a lot of interacting with other parents/children and I want to make sure she doesn't miss out on opportunities.

Does anyone have any experience of this, or any tips? I was thinking maybe to focus on one on one playdates and maybe try to think of some ways to charge my batteries before I have a social event coming up?.... or will I just need to suck it up until she is old enough to do things on her own? :)

Grateful for any advice!

I found you can be as involved as you want to as a parent. Your child will find her own way. There will be clubs and groups she can join without your input that she will love, and you don't have to force yourself to be someone you aren't. My kids are also very gregarious and I am very solitary. Don't worry too much.

She can play in the park with other kids, you can walk around with your phone, or sit with a book - whatever allows you to be alone among others. You don't need to participate at all.

Same with lots of clubs and activities.

There doesn't have to be "lots of interacting" with other parents and children, a bit of politeness and then on with your day, you might want to organise things with them, but this can be increasingly done over text which is likely less impactful.