6 Ways I Still Treat My Older Kids Like Toddlers

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As I prepared lunches for my children, ages 11 and 13, I had an enlightening moment regarding my parenting habits. Despite their growth, I still treat them in ways reminiscent of their toddler years. While one might expect a parent to relish their children’s emerging independence, I find myself clinging to certain behaviors that reflect an earlier stage of their development. Here are six examples:

1. Peeling Oranges: Surprisingly, I still take the time to peel oranges for my kids. At what point do I let them tackle this simple task themselves?
2. Pouring Milk: I continue to pour milk for them, raising the question: is there any tween still drinking milk?
3. Heating Up Showers: I even start my son’s shower to ensure the water is warm. Really? He’s capable of doing this himself.
4. Sniffing for Odors: When my kids walk by, I can’t help but sniff them to check for any unpleasant odors. This isn’t just a little odd; it’s downright strange.
5. Fussing Over Scrapes: I find myself getting overly dramatic when they scratch themselves, as if they need my constant attention to find a band-aid.
6. Serving Their Food: I still dish out my son’s food, which feels more appropriate for a pet than for a ten-year-old.

Today, however, marks a turning point. I proudly packed unpeeled oranges in their lunches, demonstrating a small step toward their independence.

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In conclusion, while it’s natural to hold on to certain habits from earlier parenting stages, recognizing when to let go can foster more independence in our children.