Dear Dorie, Now that my toddler is walking, it seems like all he wants to do is play at the park. I’m all for park outings, but it does get boring. What’s going on with him and is there anything else I should be doing? — Park Impatient Dear Park, When you make physical activity a part of your daily routine — as in a trip to the park — you promote your son’s physical strength and health. You also help him build self-confidence and exploration skills such as communication and decision-making. The missing link here is how to do it so it’s not so boring.
First and foremost, watch what he’s doing. This will help you understand what he’s discovering and lead to some discoveries of your own. Let him explore alone. Stay nearby for safety but hold your hands behind your back and enjoy the beginnings of independence.
Finally, change parks. A new adventure for him is a new adventure for you. Southern California has year-round accessibility to some of the best playgrounds in the country. Talk to your fellow parents and try new territory. Familiar surroundings make toddlers comfortable but not if the monotony makes mommy cranky. (Dorie Meek is director of the Infant & Family Support Program, provided by Saint John’s Health Center in partnership with the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Submit your questions at, or call 310-452-6132 or fax 310- 452-6392.)
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 3, 2005. Read the original PDF.