So my kid doesn’t seem to have like a best friend or regular playdates like my other two did at this age. It feels like all the other parents are constantly organizing hangouts and I’m over here wondering if I should be doing the same. I just don’t remember feeling this much pressure about socializing when my older kids were younger. Do I really need to start arranging playdates or is it okay to let them figure it out on their own? I reallyyy don’t feel like adding something more to my to do list but I don’t want them to be left out
I’m going through something similar. My 7 year old also doesn’t have bff and I feel like every other parent I know is organizing playdates every weekend. It’s exhausting just thinking about it. Then I wonder if I’m dropping the ball here? I don’t remember to have this pressure growing up. Do I need to step in more or just let her navigate it herself. What do you think?
I hear you loud and clear. I was in the same boat with my youngest. I was running around with my older one, and suddenly I realized my 6 year old didn’t have the same friend group as they did at that age. It’s tough because, on one hand, you don’t want to force friendships but on the other you feel like you should be doing something to help them socially. I did a few playdates but it felt more like I was doing it to keep up with other parents rather than for my kid. It’s exhausting trying to keep up with all the shoulds. In the end, I decided to step back a bit and let things happen naturally. I’m still not sure if it’s the right approach but well you’re not alone in this!
It’s reassuring to hear I’m not the only one feeling this way! I’ll try to relax a bit and not force it. Maybe I’ll set up a casual hangout every now and then, but I won’t stress over it. And be patient they’ll figure it out in their own time. Really appreciate the advice.
It’s so easy to feel like you’re falling behind when it seems like other parents are constantly setting up playdates and doing well… everything . Honestly though sometimes less is more. From my experience, kids figure things out in their own time. My son didn’t have a consistent group of friends until around 7 or 8 and I was worried at first too. But we gave him the space to build friendships at school and other activities. I would suggest not putting too much pressure on yourself to organize things. Maybe start small, invite one friend over after school if it feels manageable, and see how it goes. But trust me, you’re not missing the boat here. Your kid will find their way socially, just like your older ones did.