My son is Lonely during the summer holidays :(

[Lila28]

Hi everyone,

I moved to Battersea around 2 years ago due to fleeing domestic violence and have found it really difficult to make friends. Most of the friends I have made rarely invite my son anywhere and as they all have lots of friends/family with kids so my son doesn't really get thought of, which is sad because I invite his friends from school around to play quite often but it seems like no one cares to return the favour once in a while.. It gets especially lonely during the holidays and I would just like to connect with other mums who are interested in meeting up and maybe arranging play dates. Thanks hope I hear from you soon :) x

I can't help with playdates but is there anything on at the local libraries or leisure centres you could take him to for company or parks/soft play. Swimming pools? Just trying to suggest a few ideas.

Are there any events at museums or library's he could be others at? You're lucky in that you are in London so tonnes of stuff, google to see what's on during the holidays, holiday clubs cost a tonne but I know our little library has activities for various age groups for free same with museums in town x

That must be tough. In my area there is a single parent group on meetup.com, you could check if there is something near you. They organise walks, picnics, etc.

Just wanted to say well done for taking your son away from the DV and setting up on your own. And well done for making such an effort with playdates for him (even if it wasn't reciprocated) And well done for trying to make plans to avoid your son being lonely. You are doing really well and have achieved a lot

Are there any sports clubs or you could try cubs or scouts

Is there anything you could get involved in as a family? Local group, charity etc. It would be a great way to meet new friends! Well done on making the move away. It's a really brave step.

Thank you that means a lot

Thanks everyone for all the suggestions and advice

singlewithkids.co.uk/single-parents-blog/

Have a look at this. My sister made really good friends from one of their short breaks.

there's an app for mum's called MUSH and you can find other mums in your area and hopefully meet people in the same boat. most of my good friends live in my old town and I just had a baby here. been to a few groups etc but I've recently started going walks with a nice woman who had a baby about the same age and was lonely too
might be worth a shot

I'd also recommend the MUSH app. I've used it and it's great 😁

Can you not book him into some of those summer sports or activity camps. My son is going to one all next week. He is going with a friend but I guarantee he will meet lots of other kids there.

How much do they cost per day?

Probably £30-40 in London but local authorities run loads of free stuff, try your library

You're doing really well btw

Great thank you

I'm in the north east and it cost £42 for the week. Its from 10-3 every day and they take their own packed lunch. Its run by local schools.

Try the mush app. I downloaded it the other day.

You are doing really well! Is Gingerbread active in the area? I'd have thought so.... good luck, you definitely need company.

Thanks everyone! You've all been really kind, I've downloaded meet ups and the mush app and have managed to find a couple single parent groups.

Appreciate all the tips Xxx

How are finances?

Acitv camps have days in the summer at emmanuel school which wont be far from you (about 10-15 min walk from clapham junction. Out kids love it.

How old is your DS?

I often find that play dates are not reciprocated - I do find it rude and sad for my son. But now I just focus on a playdate being a nice day for him. I invite children over in a regular basis and just don't think about whether they are reciprocated or not. Keep inviting them if it makes a nice day for your son.
Does he find someone to play with if you take him to a busy park? I find that's a good strategy.

Battersea Park used to have a sports camp connected to the adventure playground it might be worth looking at that. My DS is adverse to football so we've never done it but have friends who have and it was good.
I hope your DS manages to find someone who'll be good company.