When I first became a mom, I often heard the question, “How do you like being a mom?” Honestly, I struggled to find the right words. Sure, I adored my son, but let’s be real—motherhood is tough. For a long time, I felt isolated in my challenges, as most new moms seemed to respond with cheerful affirmations like “I love it!” or “It was love at first sight!”
In the early years, parents seemed more open about the struggles of parenting, perhaps because the chaos of toddler tantrums and the antics of preschoolers were too wild to ignore. Eventually, we all seemed to find our footing, accepting that parenting is often a chaotic ride. Together, we shared those moments of madness, and it felt wonderfully liberating.
But then, middle school hit. Suddenly, the conversations around parenting quieted down. When asked how their child is adjusting to this new phase, parents often respond with a nonchalant “It’s fine.” It’s a familiar refrain, one I’ve uttered myself. But let’s be honest: IT IS NOT FINE. It’s far from it.
Middle school can be a whirlwind of emotions and challenges that leaves us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. I often find myself yearning for a support group specifically for those of us navigating the treacherous waters of middle school. Can someone please step up and create that?
Every day feels like a battle with no clear rules. Will my middle schooler be cheerful or moody? Will they want to cuddle, or will I be met with eye rolls? The unpredictability is exhausting. Reflecting on my own middle school experience, I realize that it was brutal—not just for me, but likely for my parents too. They probably lost countless nights worrying about my teenage angst, just as I do now.
Middle school is hard for everyone involved—students, parents, teachers—you name it. Yet, we often brush off the struggle with a casual “it’s fine,” while dealing with the very real issues of technology, social media, and the pressures of growing up. When I think back to my childhood, the worst I had to worry about was passing notes in class. Today, kids face cyberbullying and sexting, all while grappling with their developing identities.
The stakes have never been higher, and it’s essential for our middle schoolers to understand that the challenges they face are shared by many. They need to find solidarity among their peers, just as we, as parents, need to seek support from one another. Let’s stop the facade of “it’s fine” and instead, share the reality of our experiences.
And if you’re one of the fortunate ones who hasn’t yet faced the middle school struggle, consider yourself lucky. But remember: even if it’s not hard for you and your child, it might be for others. Kindness and understanding can go a long way in this journey.
So here’s the bottom line: let’s be there for each other. We’re all navigating the challenges of middle school—let’s make the journey a little easier together.
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Summary:
Middle school can be an overwhelming and isolating experience for both kids and their parents. It’s time for us to acknowledge the difficulties and create a supportive community where we can share our struggles and experiences. Together, we can navigate this challenging phase with kindness and understanding.