There is Much to Learn When at the Park

The experience that often makes me feel alone in my role as a stay-at-home father is when I take my daughter to the park on weekdays.

We go to the park every weekday unless the weather prevents us from doing so, so I am talking about a very common occurrence.

No matter what park we go to, the ratio of mothers to fathers is usually around 10 to 1 (or more). So usually, I’m the only father at the park – and when other men are present, it is in the context of the full family being present, whether they are on vacation or just off of work. This is all fine with me!

I immediately embraced my new role when it began, and I honestly do not recall ever being uncomfortable in being in a minority with respect to this circumstance. In fact, I think it is pretty cool. It is not as if anyone is looking at me in a negative context, and, I presume, it is more the opposite. I am doing something most fathers simply are not in a position to do. Beyond being comfortable in spending weekdays at the park, is the importance of learning from the other parents.

When we are at the park, I enjoy meeting and talking with the moms. It’s fun, but is also the perfect opportunity to find out what other parks they recommend and how they prepare for these types of outings. Just being very observant really enhances my parenting skills. I see how other parents play and interact with their children, how they react when their child falls, or throws a tantrum, and how they handle their departure from the park, which can be quite tricky.

Sometimes my daughter simply says, “'Bye, park” and we head out easily. Other times, when she is very tired, she screams “More park! Park! Park!" … and our departure is less than elegant.

Everything cannot always be real graceful with children, but observations of others can be a huge aid. Believe me, through these observations you can learn the best – and worst – methods for reacting to various public situations.

By Brian Doolittle, Lifestyle Blogger for SmartParenting