As my son’s circle of friends expands, my calendar fills up with social obligations. Just last month, we attended five birthday celebrations, and yes, I may have snagged a piece of cake right from another kid’s hand because my son forgot to save me a slice of pizza. Being part of your child’s social scene means mingling with other parents, often with little in common besides our kids. Here are some lighthearted rules for navigating these social gatherings.
- Until we’ve shared a drink, it’s perfectly fine if we refer to each other as [Child’s Name] + [Mom or Dad]. So, how’s it going, Liam’s Mom?
- If I show up with a gift at a party held in a play area that resembles a locker room and requires me to take off my shoes while indulging in greasy pizza, I expect a thank-you note.
- Should I invite you to a gathering in a similar smelly playspace, where I’m also providing the greasy pizza that I’ve paid for in advance, a prompt RSVP would be greatly appreciated.
- When I’m re-gifting for your child’s birthday, I always contemplate, “Would I want this cluttering my house?” Please use the same discretion, or I might fill your gas tank with glitter.
- I will interpret the question, “Should I bring wine?” as purely rhetorical.
- I’m happy to assist with childcare in a pinch, but just know that you’ve opened a tab for future favors.
- If your child tends to be extra sensitive, please don’t expect other parents to demand apologies for every emotional outburst. It’s a slippery slope, and therapy bills add up quickly!
- If we’ve exchanged pleasantries at drop-off for over three years, I expect you to hold the door open for me. I might look a bit frazzled, but I assure you I’m not a lost soul just looking for free snacks.
- When planning playdates or outings, remember that dads are equally involved as parents—not just sidekicks wandering along with the moms.
- Label your nannies clearly. It’s far more comforting to see a 19-year-old au pair making me feel slightly plump than a peer doing the same!
This article was originally published on Jan. 9, 2013.
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Summary:
Navigating the world of child-centric social interactions can be humorous yet challenging. From understanding the etiquette of gift-giving and RSVPs to recognizing the roles of parents in the mix, these ten rules can help make the experience more enjoyable. Embracing the chaos of birthday parties and playdates while maintaining a sense of humor can lead to more fulfilling connections with fellow parents.
Keyphrase: child-centered social life
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