Mom Sparks Debate on Playground Etiquette: Expert Weighs In

At playgrounds, differing parenting styles often become apparent. Recently, Beth Crosby, a mother from Los Angeles, shared her perspective on the role of parents at the park, igniting discussions about parental involvement during children’s play. She openly identifies with the parents who prefer to supervise from the sidelines rather than actively engage in play.

Crosby, the mother of 9-year-old Grace, views the playground as a valuable opportunity for children to socialize and expend energy. In an interview with TODAY.com, she explained, “It’s her chance to make friends and burn off energy. And it’s a break for me, even if I’m just staring off into the void for two minutes.”

To voice her thoughts, Crosby created a video expressing her “unpopular opinion.” She stated, “I know I’m going to get hate for it… I don’t play with my kid at the park. Period.” She emphasized that the playground should serve as a space for children to navigate their social interactions and engage in imaginative play.

Crosby humorously remarked on the presence of adults participating in playground activities, stating, “When I see a full-grown adult on the play structure going down the slide, swinging on the swings with their kid, I get angry, because now they’ve made us look bad.” In her social media caption, she elaborated on the joys of spending quality time with Grace in other activities, such as baking and riding bikes. She mentioned her efforts to limit her child’s screen time, highlighting, “When I decide to take my kid to the park, honeyyyyyyy that is MY TIME.”

Crosby’s video resonated with many followers, who largely supported her stance on playground etiquette. Comments reflected agreement with her opinion, stating, “Amen. It’s recess time – go run and be social!” and “Agree!!! My son loves making temporary friends at the park + I enjoy watching the magic of childhood. There is no room for adults in that pure play!”

While many echoed her sentiments, some commenters cautioned against judging other parents. One user shared, “When my kids were park aged I worked lots of weird hours as a healthcare professional. I wasn’t a stay-at-home mom and wasn’t home all day with them, so when I DID get to take them to the park, it was our time.” This perspective highlights the diverse circumstances parents face in balancing their own needs with those of their children.

Crosby’s approach has not only benefited Grace but has also allowed her to forge connections with other mothers. She recounts meeting two close friends at the park, noting their varied backgrounds: “I’m an actor, one sells life insurance, and the other is an event planner.” These interactions illustrate the community-building potential of shared experiences at playgrounds.

Expert Insights on Parenting at Playgrounds

Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a parenting expert, weighed in on the topic, suggesting that playgrounds serve a dual purpose. “You’re there to make sure the kids follow safety rules and to help if someone gets hurt, but you don’t need to be the swimmer,” she explained. While she acknowledges that parental play can enhance the experience, she emphasizes that it is not a requirement.

Dr. Gilboa also highlighted the developmental benefits of playgrounds, stating, “A new space with physical challenges along with the chance to be a little bored, use their imagination and make their own fun, builds all kinds of resilience, creativity and brain power.” This perspective underscores the importance of allowing children to explore and engage independently in their environment.

As the conversation around playground parenting continues, Crosby’s viewpoint serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting in public spaces. Whether actively participating or observing from a distance, parents play a crucial role in facilitating their children’s development and socialization.