As a parent, it’s been quite a while since my little ones were just that—little. I find myself reminiscing about their adorable baby scent, their chubby cheeks, and those tiny fingers and toes. However, parenting teenagers comes with its own unique rewards that often go unrecognized.
Though they can be moody, disorganized, and occasionally emit a scent reminiscent of old socks, teenagers also bring a lot of joy and laughter into our lives. Below are ten reasons why I’m thankful for my adolescent children.
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No More Waking a Sleeping Baby
The term “sleeping like a baby” seems misleading, considering infants often wake multiple times at night. In contrast, once my teenagers are asleep, it takes a lot to disturb them—doorbells, phone calls, or even loud yelling doesn’t seem to faze them. -
Stay Current on Trends
There’s a humorous moment in a film when a mother, played by a famous actress, tries to gather information about what’s “in” from her daughters’ friends. While I wouldn’t advise her methods, having teens allows me to stay informed about the latest music and trends, like when I knew who was opening for a major artist. -
Dining Out is a Breeze
Gone are the days of juggling a crying infant while trying to savor a meal. Now, my teenagers can sit through an entire meal, appetizers to dessert, without a fuss, allowing for relaxed family dinners. -
No More Kids’ Shows
I remember the endless loop of children’s programming that once filled our home. While shows like “Dora the Explorer” had their charm, I don’t miss the repetitive songs and characters. Now, I can enjoy shows and movies that are more geared toward older audiences. -
Less Frequent Illness
When my kids were younger, they seemed to catch every virus going around. It felt like I spent more time at the pediatrician’s office than anywhere else. Now, my teenagers are much more resilient, and we rarely have to deal with runny noses or stomach bugs. -
Brutally Honest Feedback
Teens are not shy about giving their opinions. Whether it’s about my outfit or a hairstyle, I can always count on them for a straightforward assessment. A compliment from them means I can confidently wear something knowing it’s truly stylish. -
In-House Tech Savvy
My teenagers have become my go-to tech support team. They can troubleshoot my computer issues, recommend apps, and even guide me in using social media without making me feel outdated. Their tech skills have certainly come in handy, especially when I need help with a new gadget. -
Driving Independence
While the initial experience of my teen learning to drive was nerve-wracking, it has since become a relief that I don’t have to drive her everywhere. As she gained confidence on the road, I found more freedom during my busy days. -
Help with High Shelves
It’s a strange transition when you suddenly find yourself looking up to your child. However, having a taller teen around makes everyday tasks, like reaching high shelves, much easier. -
Challenging My Thinking
Engaging with my teenagers about current events and their perspectives has reignited my own interests in various topics. Helping them with schoolwork has also reminded me of knowledge I had almost forgotten, and their views often challenge me to reconsider my own opinions.
While nurturing young children is a joyful experience, there are countless enriching moments with teenagers that foster deeper connections. From attending concerts to discussing complex topics, I cherish the evolving relationship I have with my teens. As Rick from Casablanca famously said, “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
In summary, while parenting teenagers may come with its challenges, it also offers unique rewards that are worthy of gratitude. From their independence to the honest conversations we share, my teens continually enrich my life in ways I never expected. If you’re interested in exploring more about family dynamics, check out this resource on treating infertility or discover ways to boost fertility with supplements.
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