Derek Thompson recently took to Instagram to showcase the lengths dads will go to when it comes to engaging in pretend play with their children. It’s no secret that when kids lead the way in imaginative games, parents often find themselves stuck taking on the less glamorous roles.
In a lighthearted post, Thompson humorously detailed a recent play session with his three-year-old daughter and five-year-old son. He wrote, “In this scenario, I’m ‘Little Sister,’ while my daughter takes the role of ‘Big Brother.’ Our son is ‘Mommy,’ and let me tell you, he was quite the taskmaster.”
When a toddler hands you a pretend phone, you don’t just ignore it—you answer! Similarly, when a little one assigns you a role in their vivid world of make-believe, you dive right in. Thompson’s face, adorned with a comically oversized crown, displays the classic “Dad look” of someone who has had their fair share of playing the baby in the family.
He finds himself downgraded to the lower bunk, surrounded by stuffed animals graciously lent by his pint-sized rulers. It’s a scene every parent can relate to, as many have experienced being cast as the witch, ogre, or in other undesirable roles during playtime.
This humorous struggle resonates with many parents. It’s a familiar narrative of sacrifice and dedication in the name of fun, reminding us that the joys of parenthood often come with a side of laughter and humility.
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Ultimately, as Thompson and his family navigate the ups and downs of parenting, it’s clear that these moments—though sometimes challenging—are what make fatherhood all the more rewarding.