It was one of the most difficult parts of parenting. I am an introvert, but the child we raised wasn't. I grew up with extended family as my primary p
It was one of the most difficult parts of parenting. I am an introvert, but the child we raised wasn’t. I grew up with extended family as my primary playmates, but my child took an immediate interest in befriending neighbors, classmates, and teammates his age.
My child is an adult now. But when it came time to let him go to some social events with other teens, it was a struggle. He didn’t get it, nor did the other non-Black parents. At least one decided I was the bad guy. That was fine. I had grown comfortable with that.
I train professionals and parents and have been since my child was a toddler to expect that response and then make your own choice on behalf of what is in the best interest of your child’s safety. As for me in my house, his safety came first.
As time went on, there came a time when it was the same core group of children—Black, Asian, Latino/Hispanic, white, and mixed-race. That made it easier because I got to know them and they us. Sometimes I hosted, and other times the other parents hosted.
Especially in parenting, trust is built, not just dispensed.
Sleepovers Aren’t Sacred—But Children’s Safety Is – Rosa’s Children