The last few days we have been learning lessons about friends. The lessons aren't planned, but happening naturally and nonetheless.
The gender differences are showing up earlier than I thought they would, but I really think that's what the basis is for these "issues". Boys want to play with boys a lot of the time because they're like-minded and can be dirty and rough. Just to clarify, my girl is pretty girly but she's also got a big attitude and doesn't mind getting messy.
Anyway, one scenario presented itself yesterday when she was with a set of brothers. The older they get, the more they want to play ball and run with other boys while she wants to climb, slide, and swing. There was still some overlap play, but she's only interested in playing football for so long and the boys weren't really interested in swinging.
The second instance happened today when we got home from school and work. She thought plans were set in stone to meet up with another boy to decorate pumpkins. Apparently, the comment made about plans was said just to be sweet which ended up hurting feelings when there was no follow through. Nothing really to be mad about as a parent, but I also understand her sensitivity to the situation.
Trying to explain how things work, like different family dynamics and everyone not wanting to play the same game, is not easy. Even choosing words that a four year old can understand to explain the most basic concept involved was tough. I don't know that she really understands, but art projects and the Barbie show on Netflix are soothing enough.
The other lesson involves a furry friend that doesn't belong to us. She had a play date with a cat and has been asking to go back over ever since then. The challenge there is not only explaining that we can't just stay over at this friend's house, but that the cat doesn't always want to have a human companion - specifically toddler - trying to do tricks with him.
There's been lots of crying and pouting with all of this, and my heart does ache for her to an extent; however, I also know she's got to start learning these tough lessons and they will only help her in the long run.
