Parenting influencer and therapist K.C. Davis recently went viral for admitting: she never plays pretend with her kids. At first glance, that might sound shocking—but her reason has sparked meaningful discussion.
Instead of pretending to host tea parties or be a dragon, Davis spends time with her kids doing things she truly enjoys—like baking, art, and science experiments. She believes this approach helps her children build independence while keeping parenting joyful and sustainable.
This raises a bigger question: do parents really need to play pretend to be considered “good” parents?
🧠What Experts & Research Say
Many parents feel guilty for disliking pretend play—but studies show it’s not the only way for kids to thrive. While make-believe can boost creativity and social skills, other types of play and interaction are just as valuable.
đź’ˇ Myths vs. Realities
| ❌ Myth | ✅ Reality |
|---|---|
| Parents must do pretend play for healthy development | Pretend play is helpful, but not mandatory. Kids learn creativity, problem-solving, and emotional skills in many ways. |
| Good parents always say “yes” to pretend games | It’s okay to set boundaries. Forcing it can lead to burnout, which children sense. |
| Pretend play is the only way to build social skills | Real-life activities—cooking, sports, exploring outdoors—also teach teamwork, empathy, and resilience. |
🌱 What Really Matters
- Authentic experiences → Focus on activities you and your kids genuinely enjoy.
- Child-led play → Let them explore independently; it builds confidence.
- Self-care for parents → Protect your energy. A happy parent is more present and connected.
- Balance → Mix pretend play (if you like it) with real-world activities like baking, painting, or hiking.
✨ Real-Life Examples
- K.C. Davis: Says “no” to make-believe, but bonds through science projects and outdoor adventures.
- Everyday parents: Some admit they find pretend exhausting—so they encourage independent play instead. Their kids thrive with creativity and self-direction.
đź’¬ Takeaway
Parenting isn’t a performance—it’s about connection. Pretend play can be fun, but it’s not a requirement. Whether you’re painting rocks in the backyard, baking cookies, or reading side by side, what matters most is that the experience feels real, joyful, and shared.
