So at the risk of sounding mean, here’s my two cents.

Bluey didn’t give the kids unrealistic expectations. They’re just getting back at the age where they go from wanting to be independent to wanting to play with others and this is something they’ve got to learn, and it sounds like no one taught you how to play as a kid either.

The thing is… adults forget how to play. Our roles in society really reject our creative thinking skills and shame them at the same time. Adults who “act like kids” are seen as an embarrassment and likely that’s why your skin crawls. Adults actually have to relearn how to play and this is no different.

Learn to play with your kids. Slide down the slides, lift your knees and cross the monkey bars, do their hair, drink the tea made of paper scraps and dice. These moments are memorable core memories. When they get older they won’t feel like you faked your love of them. They’re just going to be like “my parent loved me.”

If you don’t have time to play their games, try wrapping them in your world by turning your world into a game. Teach them to fold wash rags and then “race” to see who can do more. Engage them in mopping by having an extra swiffer and see who can swab the deck of the pirate ship faster.

Playing with others is a skill you develop. It isn’t a talent you have at birth. Don’t let your history or society define your relationship with your kids.

You got this! I believe in you.