In the realm of parenting, children can often exhibit a wide range of behaviors, and some may seem more… untamed than others. In my experience, the difference between my first child and my second is astonishing. While my eldest was the epitome of decorum—enjoying quiet activities like tea parties and board games—my younger child, whom I affectionately refer to as the “wild child,” appears to have landed from a distant world where conventions like shoes, soap, and manners are mere myths. Even the most effective parenting strategies seem to have little impact on her feral nature. Here are 10 signs that may indicate you, too, have a child who defies societal norms:
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Preferential Mobility
My youngest seems to have mastered the art of moving on all fours, often opting to gallop rather than walk upright. Feral children frequently exhibit a preference for crawling, climbing, or even leaping over walking, showcasing their innate desire for freedom of movement. -
Utensil Aversion
When it comes to dining, flatware is often seen as an unnecessary complication. My wild child would relish every meal without a fork or spoon if given the choice, often opting to eat with her hands or, as if imitating a bird of prey, directly with her mouth. -
Embracing Dirt
It’s a joy to behold the sheer delight on her face when she returns from outdoor play, covered head to toe in dirt. The more she can embrace the great outdoors—barefoot and muddy—the happier she becomes. -
The Five-Second Rule? Nonexistent
While my older child is a germaphobe, my wild one has no qualms about eating food that has touched the ground. The idea of a five-second rule is lost on her; she will promptly pick up a slice of pizza, discard any debris, and devour it without hesitation. -
Hair Maintenance? What’s That?
Getting my child to groom her hair has been an ongoing struggle. If left to her own devices, she would allow her hair to grow unkempt, reminiscent of someone raised in the wilderness—much to her delight. -
Fashion Choices
Her clothing often bears the scars of her adventurous spirit, with holes and stains being common occurrences. The stretchy pants she favors for unrestricted movement may not withstand the rigors of her explorations, and napkins appear to be a foreign concept in her world. -
Nest-Like Sleeping Arrangements
It’s rare for my child to sleep in a conventional manner. Instead, she creates a cozy nest by rearranging her blankets and pillows, even opting to purchase a large dog bed despite having no dog in the household. -
Climbing Trees as a Hobby
When her name is called and she doesn’t respond, my first instinct is to check the trees. More often than not, she’s found perched high up, engrossed in a book or creating imaginary scenarios amidst the leaves. -
Animal Affinity
From a young age, my daughter expressed a deep connection with animals, once naming her doll “Horse.” Her fascination with wildlife has only intensified over the years, shaping her into a passionate advocate for animal welfare and environmental conservation. -
Redefining Free Spirit
These children exemplify the essence of a free spirit, unburdened by societal expectations. While we strive to guide them toward socially acceptable behavior, we also recognize the beauty of their unfiltered connection with nature.
In summary, though my wild child’s behavior may not align with conventional parenting ideals, it’s crucial to acknowledge and celebrate her unique spirit. Each child, regardless of their tendencies, possesses a distinct beauty that contributes to the richness of our shared experience.
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