It is undeniable that our generation of parents is more involved in our children's daily lives than any generation preceding us. It is common for parents to constantly be in our kids' schools, connect with their teachers, "friend" their friends on Facebook, and revolve our weekends around their activities. With this, a new phenomenon has been born. More than ever before, parents are making friends with the parents of their children's friends; or like I call them, "Momships."
My definition of a momship is a relationship that has been forged through one's child's friendship with another person's child. These friendships might not have happened naturally but occur once our children choose their friends. These relationships are not bad to have. Momships are like war-buddies, they are people who share the personal experiences of your daily life.
What happens to these friendships when our children grow apart from the friends they once had? It can be awkward to continue the close friendship when your child stops requesting playdates and sleepovers with their once preferred friends. The best momships can last through uncomfortable playground politics. Most children naturally change friends as they grow and develop. If you have a momship, evaluate whether that friendship is one that can withstand the possible rejection your child can potentially experience by your friend's child. If your child decides to move in another social direction, how can you best handle this with your mom-friend? An open and honest discussion about this possibility can go a long way.
Momships are not just valuable for sharing some wine while your children play. They can be valuable for building a sense of community for your child and family. If you can successfully separate your child's social situations from your own personal sense of rejection, momships can last long past your child's new favorite friend.
