I don't want to play with my kids, but I want to want to play with my kids

8h ago1 min read

My wife still works part-time. We've agreed that she can work 7-9am on weekdays. I am supposed to feed our two children (ages 3 and 6) breakfast and then be with them until 9 when I can go to work. Lately, I have just been surviving this morning time. Everything in me wants to be by myself. I'm tired. I feel super guilty because I want to want to spend time with my children, but another part of is hardcore resisting it. I'm not sure how to get out of this rut. I'm going to a therapist, seeking help from friends and mentors, trying to find time to meditate and process my feelings.... all the things.

Does anyone else relate with this experience? What have you tried to get out of a rut like this?

3 comments48 views

Comments(3)

VVictor M.New Dad7h ago

The fact that you want to want to play says something good about you as a dad. Those ages are tough though, that's a lot of energy before coffee kicks in.

AAdam R.Regular7h ago

Man, I get this completely. Some mornings with my two I'm just going through the motions during breakfast and playtime. But honestly those small moments add up more than you think, even when you're not feeling it.

VViktor S.New Dad7h ago

Two boys here and I felt exactly this way until I stopped forcing the big elaborate play sessions. Now we just hang at the playground and it feels way more natural. Sometimes the kids just want you there, not performing.