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They Might Be Adorable Now, But That Won’t Last
To the parents of little ones:
Your child is absolutely precious. I adore how she beams at you with those big, innocent eyes, and how she clings to you during drop-offs at preschool. It’s heartwarming to see her glance over at you as she colors, seeking your approval. And those sweet little kisses she blows your way when you and your partner head out for a date night? Simply delightful.
But here’s the kicker: eventually, that cherubic little angel will turn on you. You won’t see it coming, but one day, that sweet child is going to tell you to take a hike. Trust me; I’ve been there — the tumultuous tween and teenage years will hit like a ton of bricks.
Looking back at old photos, I can still remember my sons’ unwavering admiration for me. They loved when I took them to that quirky diner where food arrives via a miniature train, or when I shared a hilarious story about my brother shooting me in the knee with an arrow when I was a kid. They hung onto my every word, even eagerly asking for repeat performances of those tales, especially the part where my mom rolled her eyes at my injury. I vividly recall the joy on their faces when they discovered the Easter Bunny tracks I’d painstakingly created with baby powder. Back then, I was the rock star of the family. I could do no wrong.
But then, around age 12, I suddenly morphed from beloved superstar to total goofball. No one prepares you for this seismic shift in the parenting landscape. It strikes like an unexpected storm, leaving a trail of emotional wreckage. The stories that once had them in stitches are now met with eye rolls and “Mom, I’ve heard that one a million times.” Your insightful advice on school or friendships is greeted with a dismissive “you just don’t understand,” despite you having navigated the high school minefield yourself. Praise that used to light up their faces is now met with sneers and indifferent “whatever”s.
And it doesn’t get any easier as they plunge into their teenage years. The unkindness and sharp barbs can come out of nowhere. You’ll find that your heart sinks a little when your daughter ridicules your outfit suggestion. You’ll feel a pang of real pain when your son snaps at you to mind your own business. No one can prepare you for that gut-wrenching moment when your child calls you a jerk because you won’t pay for his new phone screen.
Child development experts explain that this behavior is a normal part of a tween’s journey toward independence. While we all wish for our kids to grow up and become self-sufficient, does it really have to be such an emotional rollercoaster?
Friends and relatives assure us that things will improve eventually. One acquaintance recounted how he was pleasantly surprised when his son sought his advice on buying a house. Another friend was taken aback when her daughter asked for her feedback on a college paper. I, for one, will be in shock the day my sons come to me for guidance.
So, to all you parents with tiny tots, relish these moments of adoration while they last. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself sliding down from grace, possibly into the realm of geekdom or, if you’re really unlucky, becoming a complete outcast.
You’ve been forewarned. You’re welcome.
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In summary, parenting is a wild ride from sweet little cherubs to moody tweens and teens. Enjoy the love while it lasts, and brace yourself for the inevitable shift!