In my efforts to figure out a solution to my latest, greatest, most frustrating parenting challenge, I'm turning to those of you loved ones with any knowledge and/or experience about the subject below. HELP ME!
In the mornings, when I often have tons of chores to do, I expect the girls to have some "independent play time" so I can catch up on house work. So I gate them in the living room with lots of toys (though I have recently thinned out the toy selection so they aren't overstimulated). And as they hang over the baby gate staring at me like lost puppies, or fall despondent on the floor, this is what I cringe to hear:
I'm bored.
You're WHAT?
I've tried all kinds of ways to get the girls to play by themselves, which I think I am right to expect (right?), and often they will pick up an object, mope around the room, pick on each other or whine. They're both very creative with great imaginations, so I know the failure is mine.
How do I teach the girls to play by themselves? And how much time a day should I expect them to be able to do that?
Won't some compassionate family member or friend with success in this area take a few moments to e-mail me a pointer or two? I really, genuinely, would appreciate feedback. So, please, consider this your invitation. :)
Teach 'em to play Bull! Or Chair!
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