When do I need to start making an effort for playdates, etc.?

[Birdmom5]

Anonymous wrote:My son just turned 2 -- I WOHM and my son has a nanny. He seems to be doing great and I just love spending time with him. I do worry, however, that I need to be getting more proactive about making mom friends so he will have playmates. Do I? I am a total introvert and it pains me to hang out with people. I have two close friends, a great DH, and a tight knit family -- and that is more than enough for me. I hate entertaining and going to networking/social events, etc. I tried joining a mommy group when he was first born and I just couldn't stand it.

So be straight with me -- when do I need to suck it up and start making mom friends for my DS's sake? DS is starting part-time preschool in September -- should I be organizing weekend playdates at that point? Thank you!

I think a couple great friends are better than lots of people to call friends. I think you son will make natural friends at preschool that can be invited to play dates and stuff. I say just do what works for you!

[Anonymous]

I'd say allow your kid to make his own friends at his own time. You can still bring him to library storytimes for him to interact on his own (under your watch). Don't impose "friends" on him. My experience has been negative with playdates with people I hardly know. People say, "oh, that's how we make new acquaintances". But really, it's a game of chance. It's always awkward, and really, if having playdates is for your peace of mind, and to ease your conscience (without knowing if your son will really enjoy the company), then it's not a good idea. I attended a play group once (my first and last time with this group) where a little girl (about 3+ ) pestered every adult (even strangers in the park) but her mommy to push her on the swing. The mommy finally came and told her to play with other kids, so that she could chat with the other mommies! Obviously, if the girl had wanted to play with the other kids (and vice versa), she wouldn't have been alone. It pained me to see a little kid like that in a playdate that was supposedly for her social benefit.