Maybe more of a vent than looking for solutions... however they are welcome, too! In the past I've always had kids who were great free-players. This year, however.... I have a 4 1/2 year old who does NOT know how to play. She's constantly with me...what's next, what's next? I don't know what to do. When are snacks? When's lunch? ALL DAY LONG! Now, she is the oldest, but last year she had friends her age, too and it was the same thing.
She's not a bad kid at all, but it is EXHAUSTING!
I did not have her from the beginning, and I think that's a big part of the reason why. Now, we do crafts, activities led by me, songs, outdoor play, etc! BUT, they are also expected to just play at times. I think that this is a very important thing for them.
My plan for this week is to print out a lot of preschool worksheets and everytime she comes to me just pull out another one for her. She does enjoy drawing, colouring, crafts, etc. But, even that. She can't draw without asking me what she should draw!