Sometimes, as I sift through old photos and videos of my children as toddlers and preschoolers, I can’t help but feel a twinge of nostalgia. For a fleeting moment, I wish I could return to those days filled with their high-pitched giggles and quirky little habits. I recall when my biggest worry was whether they would take their naps, as opposed to the current concerns about things like vaping and the impending driver’s license (yikes!).
These nostalgic moments often strike during those particularly “teen-ish” days with my pre-teen and teenager. But I quickly remind myself how physically exhausting those early parenting years were and how much I genuinely appreciate this stage.
It’s a bit unsettling to admit this, but here it goes: I really enjoy raising teens. I thought it would be daunting, and it is. I anticipated it would be mentally draining, and oh boy, it truly is. Yet, it’s also far more rewarding than I ever imagined. Here’s why:
- Teens are Hilarious: Sure, toddlers have their amusing moments, but teens are genuinely funny. My teen often shares jokes that leave me laughing so hard I spill my coffee, and I find myself wondering, “Where did that come from?” While cute, toddlers don’t provide the same level of humor.
- Unique Perspectives: In recent weeks, I’ve had fascinating discussions with my teen and pre-teen about topics like minimum wage, bullying, and the criminal justice system. Even if I don’t always agree with their viewpoints, it’s refreshing to see how they view the world and engage with significant issues while still holding onto their innocence.
- Feeling Young Again (While Also Feeling Old): A conversation with a colleague in her twenties revealed how disconnected she felt from current trends and slang. Living with a teen keeps me in the loop, even if I struggle to grasp all the latest lingo.
- Shared Activities: When my kids were younger, finding common interests was tough. Now, we have so many enjoyable activities together, from watching sports and hiking to dining out and binge-watching our favorite shows. It’s fantastic not having to wait until bedtime to watch a show—my kids stay up later than I do!
- Glimpses of Their Future Selves: There are moments when I see my teen express an opinion or tackle a problem and I catch a glimpse of the adult they might become. It’s like watching a Polaroid picture slowly develop—full of potential and color yet to unfold. It’s a thrilling and somewhat terrifying experience, akin to a roller coaster ride that brings both joy and exhilaration.
Of course, I know that teens can be challenging. I’m sure there will be days ahead that will test my patience and bring me to my knees. But for now, I’m savoring this phase. Even though I’m hesitant to say it out loud (knock on wood), I truly enjoy this stage of parenthood. Teens are pretty remarkable, and it’s essential to acknowledge this amid the usual warnings about the “dreaded teen years”—a reminder that helps me through the tougher days.
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Summary
This article explores the joys and challenges of parenting teens, highlighting the humor, unique perspectives, and shared interests that make this stage rewarding. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the positives amidst common fears and warnings.