Playing alone

[Jmom1010]

My son who is 3 has always come home and just played by himself for a while. He's in daycare all day. I usually use this time to get dinner ready and do whatever chores need to be done so I don't really mind it. But I do feel guilty, here he is away all day and then he comes home and he's off playing alone. Is this something that I should feel guilty about? I'm thinking maybe he needs to unwind and wants to be alone? I try to engage him or at least have him play in the room I am in and he usually just does his own thing.

[Jacksmommy]

After being in daycare all day, I would imagine he needs some down time and enjoys playing alone. I wouldn't worry. He gets time with you as well, right? You have a special mommy time where you read stories or talk or something? I wouldn't worry.

[whitnessforhim]

I agree. I wouldn't worry either. I tend to think if he really wanted mommy time then he would ask for it in some way. I think I'd feel the same way if I were around a whole bunch of rouding adults all day...just need time to unwind.

DD's been doing this here and there since 8mo. I think its a good thing to be able to entertain yourself.

[Jmom1010]

Yes we read at night before bed then I cuddle him and sing songs once he's in bed.

[Stephanie]

Ds1 is like that. He tends to be introverted, and I think that he just needs to unwind.

[PeacefulMom]

I love it when DS1 likes to play by himself! I get to listen to him and hear what things he's learning about and picking up on. It also gives me a chance to do something else.

[KatieLou]

IA he might just need some down time. DD loves to play by herself and there have been times that I felt a little guilty just letting her do so, as I go on about my shore. Trust me though when she needs me to play with her, she lets me know!