I’m Hesitant to Say It, But I Actually Enjoy Raising Teens

Sometimes, when I look back at old photos or videos of my kids as toddlers and preschoolers, I feel a twinge of nostalgia. I catch myself wishing I could relive those moments with their tiny voices and quirky antics. I remember when my biggest worry was whether they’d take their naps, rather than stressing about things like vaping or obtaining their driver’s licenses (yikes!). These nostalgic reflections usually hit me on days when my teen and pre-teen are being particularly, well, teenage. Yet I quickly remind myself of how exhausting those early years were and how much I genuinely appreciate this stage of parenting.

Honestly, I’m a bit nervous to confess this, but I really love raising teens. I thought it would be daunting, and sure, it is. I anticipated it would be mentally taxing—and wow, it is! But surprisingly, it’s also far more rewarding than I ever imagined. Here’s why:

1. Teens Are Hilarious

Sure, toddlers can be goofy, and preschoolers say the most outrageous things, but teens have a unique sense of humor that can leave you in stitches. My teen often shares jokes that make me laugh so hard I can’t breathe, leaving me to wonder, “Where did that come from?” I find myself laughing much more with teens than I ever did with little ones.

2. Teens View the World Differently

Recently, I’ve had some deep conversations with my teen and pre-teen about topics like raising the minimum wage, addressing bullying, and exploring the criminal justice system. Even if I don’t concur with all their views, their perspectives are refreshing and intriguing. It’s fascinating to witness their minds grow as they contemplate larger issues while still retaining a bit of youthful innocence.

3. You Feel Young Again (Yet Old)

A colleague in her twenties once mentioned feeling out of touch with modern trends and slang. However, living with a teen keeps me in the loop. I might not fully grasp all the latest lingo, but at least I’m aware of it!

4. You Share Enjoyable Activities

Finding common interests was challenging when my children were younger. Now, we can enjoy a range of activities together, from watching sports and hiking to dining out and binge-watching shows. It’s wonderful to not have to wait until bedtime to enjoy a good film, especially since they often stay up later than I do.

5. Glimpses of Their Future Selves

Occasionally, I’ll catch a moment where my teen shares an opinion or demonstrates maturity that gives me a peek into the adult they may become. It’s like watching a Polaroid develop slowly; you see outlines of who they might be, but the final image is still a mystery. This blend of excitement and anxiety feels like a thrilling roller coaster ride.

Let me be clear: teens can definitely be challenging. I’m sure there will be days when my teen and pre-teen drive me to my wit’s end, but for now, I’m embracing this phase. Even if it feels a bit risky to say so, I genuinely enjoy this stage of parenthood. Teens are pretty remarkable, and it’s essential to acknowledge that amidst the typical warnings about the so-called “dreaded teen years.” This reminder will be helpful on those particularly tough days.

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Summary:

In this reflective piece, Alex Taylor shares the unexpected joys of raising teenagers, highlighting their humor, unique perspectives, and the rewarding bond that forms through shared interests. Despite the challenges that come with this stage, Taylor embraces the growth and development witnessed in her teens, appreciating every moment of this transformative journey.