Ever watched a teenager go from calm to furious in the blink of an eye? Just take away their phone. You might need a crowbar to wrest it from their grip, but once you do, prepare for a dramatic transformation. I’ve witnessed it myself—it’s almost worthy of an Oscar. The tears, the wailing—pure evidence that, despite the age difference, toddlers and teens share more common traits than we might think. Still skeptical? Try taking a toy away from a toddler and see what happens.
As a mom of five kids aged 2 to 19 (yes, five—I’m quite busy beyond just parenting), I can confirm that the parallels between teens and toddlers extend far beyond a phone tantrum.
Their Bedrooms
My 14-year-old daughter’s room looks like a tornado hit a thrift store. It’s not just toys strewn about; it’s clothes, books, and who knows what else! While toddlers may leave behind blocks and stuffed animals, stepping on a stray shoe in a teen’s room can be just as painful.
Their Bathrooms
My 2-year-old is still mastering potty training, but it turns out my 14-year-old still has some work to do in that area too. I won’t get into the details, but let’s just say I keep disinfecting wipes on the counter—because if they’re under it, they’ll be forgotten. Trust me on this one.
Their Need for Approval
My 19-year-old son may have moved out, but he still craves affirmation. “Look at me, Mom! I’m doing something!” It’s a universal truth—kids thrive on praise. When my toddler finally puts his toys away, I’m practically cheering him on. And guess what? Teenagers respond just as enthusiastically to a little encouragement. Want your 15-year-old to take out the trash? Get ready to throw a mini celebration!
Their Reaction to Discipline
You might have heard that training a whale involves positive reinforcement. The same principle applies to both toddlers and teens. While punishment has its place, offering rewards seems to yield much better results. Yes, it’s true! Just like the whale analogy, positive reinforcement can go a long way, so keep those cheers handy.
Their Food Preferences
My 2-year-old absolutely despises broccoli—like, it’s the enemy. Interestingly, my 15-year-old has also declared war on the tiny tree. However, both share a strong love for Doritos and cake. Who can blame them, really?
Navigating the world of parenting teens can feel overwhelming at times, but remember, you’ve been here before with your little ones. You are equipped with the knowledge and experience to tackle these challenges head-on.
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In summary, despite the age gap, teens and toddlers share striking similarities—from messy rooms to their need for validation. Embrace the chaos; you’ve got this!