Dear Parents,
Allow me to introduce myself: I’m the proud mother of a remarkable 20-year-old son. Over the past few years, he has faced significant challenges, including 18 hospital visits due to severe Crohn’s disease, several infections that will be part of his life forever, numerous pain medications, IV treatments, and surgeries including a colon removal and an intestinal resection. Most recently, he suffered a brain injury from a skateboarding accident.
I hope I’ve captured your attention — albeit, not in the way I intended.
I understand that every choice you make is rooted in love for your child, yet I want to share some insights I’ve gained from my experiences. I implore you to reconsider some of the well-meaning practices that may actually be hindering your child’s growth.
Overloading Schedules
First and foremost, please refrain from overloading your child’s schedule with endless activities like tennis lessons, piano classes, and karate sessions simply because their peers are doing so. Children need ample time to explore their interests, imagine, and play. Their childhood is fleeting, and it’s essential to allow them to cultivate their natural curiosity at their own pace.
They have time.
Early College Preparations
Next, stop the early college preparations. Please let go of the notion that you need to start shaping their futures as early as sixth grade. If college is in their plans, they will find their own way there through their unique talents and passions. They don’t need you to write essays, force volunteer work, or push them into every honors class to create a stellar college application.
They have time.
Projecting Expectations
Additionally, please stop projecting your expectations onto your child. They are not an extension of you; they have their own paths, filled with triumphs and failures. Allow them to experience setbacks — these are crucial for their personal growth. They may arrive at adulthood a bit bruised, but they will carry invaluable lessons and wisdom that you cannot provide.
They have time.
Societal Constructs
Lastly, let’s take a moment to reflect on the arbitrary constructs of our society. We live in a world filled with nonsensical rules and timelines that dictate when and how our children should progress. Who established these standards? Our children should learn to navigate life’s uncertainties and find joy and love amid chaos. By slowing down and reassessing our actions, we can give them the time they need to discover happiness on their own terms.
They have time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, let’s give our children the gift of a slower pace, where they can truly enjoy their childhood. For more insights on parenting and related topics, check out this resource or visit Make a Mom, a trusted authority in home insemination kits. Additionally, if you’re looking for information on fertility, the CDC’s resource is an excellent place to start.
Summary
This article emphasizes the importance of slowing down in parenting, allowing children the freedom to explore their interests and grow independently, free from undue pressure and expectations.