expatsincebirth
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12 years ago @ http://inburgeringadve... - Why is it so hard to m... · 1 reply · +2 points
It's been a while since my children were that small (they are 10.5, 7 and 7), but I remember that the best way to get to know the other parents was at special events at daycare: Sinterklaas, Birthdays or parties they organized at the daycare (ours had always a summer-party in June) where parents usually stay a bit longer. I did make friends there through my children. I sometimes waited until a friend of them was picked up to say a few words to the parent, something about the child or mine. It takes time, that's true. - I also met some of those children and parents at the playground near where we live, in the weekends. I know, not everyone likes smalltalk, but it really helps. After a few smalltalks you get to know the other person... It helps a lot to be extrovert in these situations and I guess this was (and is) the reason why I didn't encounter the kind of problem you describe. And about the language: sure, at the beginning it's hard, but I did ask the leidsters or parents about songs, rhymes etc. and they were always helpful and kind to help me out (and again, you get to say a few sentences ;-)). Maybe asking esplicitely about something or just starting a conversation is the trick? - I always had a chat with the leidsters when I picked up my kids, so I got to see and know many other parents. It took me sometimes 30-40 minutes to pick up the kids. I know, it's a long time, but it gave me the opportunity to get to know the other parents: when the kids need to get ready to go, to say good-bye to their friends, it's a good moment to have a quick chat. - I hope you'll soon get to know more parents ;-)