I have a 4 year old I essentially homeschool, and we go to the playground all the time. There's often kids this age hanging out, unsupervised, in packs.
A lot of the other parents show discomfort, or even trepidation, around these kids. But while it is awkward to interact, as an adult man, with other people's unattended children (especially tweens and teens) I always make an effort to get them involved.
Nothing but positive results. I've gotten the older kids to help push the little ones on the swings, lead games of hide and seek, enlisted them to help run impromptu soccer games, etc.
It's a lot of work, but I think it's what God put me here to do. The older kids love being taken seriously, and have so much to offer. The other adults often really have their eyes opened, and comment as such. I'm very grateful to be able to make a difference in the world in this way.
And this young man: well said, son. He's trembling but extraordinarily brave. I love it so much.
I have a 4 year old I essentially homeschool, and we go to the playground all the time. There's often kids this age hanging out, unsupervised, in packs.
A lot of the other parents show discomfort, or even trepidation, around these kids. But while it is awkward to interact, as an adult man, with other people's unattended children (especially tweens and teens) I always make an effort to get them involved.
Nothing but positive results. I've gotten the older kids to help push the little ones on the swings, lead games of hide and seek, enlisted them to help run impromptu soccer games, etc.
It's a lot of work, but I think it's what God put me here to do. The older kids love being taken seriously, and have so much to offer. The other adults often really have their eyes opened, and comment as such. I'm very grateful to be able to make a difference in the world in this way.
And this young man: well said, son. He's trembling but extraordinarily brave. I love it so much.