Before children, there’s often a quiet expectation — that the right toy or thoughtfully chosen space will create calm, independent play. And occasionally, it does.
But more often, the reality is shared play, constant presence, and homes that adapt in ways no one quite plans for.
As Grieta, mother of two boys, shared:
“My expectation was that if I buy a toy they want, they’ll play with it without me. The reality? They want to play with everything together with me”
She also told us how, for nearly a week, their sofa became a reserved space for plush toys – carefully lined up, watching TV. No one was allowed to sit down or disturb the plush toy watch party.
Lelde imagined peaceful days filled with reading while her toddler played nearby, maybe even cooking together in a fairly tidy kitchen with everything in its right place.
Bur reality is far from that.
“He loves to get into our spice cupboards and shake all the spices out of the packaging.”
Most days feel unpredictable, a little chaotic. Not quite the version she imagined, but full of moments that make the space feel real.
“I always thought I’d be that mom with only wooden, plastic-free, aesthetic toys.”
But the Weisers Family son had other plans. Now the Biscuit Beanbag Chair is a skyscraper in his Spider-Man world. A soft landing in the middle of big adventures.
See below how Maria’s story unfolded as imagination took the lead.