When I glance at old photos or videos of my children as toddlers and preschoolers, I can’t help but feel a twinge of nostalgia. For a brief moment, I wish I could turn back the clock to those days filled with their adorable, squeaky voices and silly antics. I reminisce about when my biggest worry was whether they’d take their naps instead of the more daunting challenges of teenage life like vaping and getting their driver’s licenses (yikes!).
These moments of nostalgia tend to surface when my teens and pre-teens are particularly “teen-like.” However, I quickly remind myself of how exhausting those early years of motherhood were, and I realize just how much I cherish this stage of parenting.
Honestly, I’m a bit hesitant to say this, but I genuinely enjoy raising teens. I expected it to be frightening, and it sure can be. I anticipated it would be mentally draining, and boy, is it ever. But it’s also far more rewarding than I ever imagined. Here’s why:
1. Teens Have a Great Sense of Humor
Sure, toddlers can be silly and preschoolers say the funniest things, but teens are genuinely hilarious. My teen often surprises me with jokes that make me spit out my coffee, and I can’t help but wonder where they came from. As adorable as toddlers are, I find myself laughing much more with my teens.
2. Teens Offer Fresh Perspectives
Recently, I’ve had enlightening discussions with my teens about topics like minimum wage, bullying, the justice system, and religion. While I don’t always agree with their views, I appreciate their unique perspectives on the world. It’s refreshing to see them think critically about significant issues while still preserving some of their innocence.
3. You Get to Feel Young Again (While Also Feeling Old)
A young colleague of mine mentioned feeling out of touch with current trends, slang, and gestures used by today’s youth. However, living with a teen keeps me in the loop. I may not fully understand the latest lingo, but at least I’m aware of it!
4. You Can Share Fun Activities
When they were younger, it was tough to find activities we all enjoyed. Now, we can watch sports, hike, dine out, and enjoy the same TV shows and movies together. It’s fantastic not to wait for the kids to go to bed to start a show; they now stay up later than I do!
5. You Catch Glimpses of Their Future Selves
Sometimes, when I listen to my teen express their opinions, I catch a glimpse of who they might become as adults, and it leaves me in awe. It’s like watching a Polaroid picture slowly develop – you can see the outlines, but the full picture is yet to unfold. It’s exhilarating and daunting all at once, like a roller coaster that promises both thrills and joy.
Don’t get me wrong; teens can definitely be challenging. There will be days when my pre-teen and teen push me to my limits. However, for now, I’m embracing this stage of parenthood. Even if I’m a bit scared to admit it (knock on wood), I genuinely enjoy this phase. Teens are pretty remarkable, and I think it’s essential to acknowledge that amidst the common warnings about the “dreaded teenage years.” This will help me remember the positives on the particularly tough days.
If you’re interested in more on this topic, check out this other blog post and learn more about the journey of parenting. Also, for those exploring their options, Make a Mom is a great authority on the subject. Plus, Facts About Fertility is an excellent resource for anyone interested in pregnancy and home insemination.
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In summary, while parenting teens can be daunting, it’s also filled with humor, shared interests, and glimpses of their future selves. Embracing this phase can lead to rewarding experiences that remind us of the joys of family life.
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