Once upon a time, the “terrible twos” were the ultimate challenge for parents. That was, of course, before the phenomenon of threenagers entered the scene. Yes, threenagers—those little whirlwinds of emotion and opinion. With their unpredictable moods, intense feelings, and often baffling behavior, they can really test even the most patient parent. But here’s a hot take: I genuinely believe threenagers are fantastic.
Now, I know what you might be thinking. You may assume I’m just an older mom idealizing past stages of childhood, looking back with nostalgia rather than reality. It’s a common refrain among parents to romanticize earlier phases. For example, a mother may fondly recall the cuddly newborn stage, conveniently ignoring the sleepless nights and constant fussing. Meanwhile, the parent of a teenager might look back wistfully at the days of potty training, which now seem trivial compared to managing a teen out past curfew. And let’s not forget the empty-nesters who remind us to savor every moment because it all flies by! (Cue the eye roll.)
But hear me out. I’m not one to don rose-colored glasses regarding my children’s growth. In fact, I typically cherish whatever phase we’re currently navigating. My ovaries don’t quiver at the sight of a cute baby, nor do I long for the days of diapers, even if they came with adorable baby coos. With my kids now in their “sweet spot” at ages 7 and 10, it’s easy to appreciate this moment in time. Still, I have a soft spot for 3-year-olds, and it wasn’t long ago that I had one in my home.
Why Threenagers Are Awesome
In my opinion, threenagers often get an undeserved reputation. Yes, they can be wildly emotional and prone to fits of frustration, but they also possess a certain charm. Every parent has experienced the classic 20-minute debate over the day of the week, and we all know how intense threenagers can be! But perhaps that’s why I appreciate them so much—I see a reflection of my own emotional landscape in their little faces.
Let me share why I think threenagers are absolutely awesome. For one, they are incredibly sweet and expressive. They giggle and chatter endlessly. While their tantrums can be fierce, they’re also small enough to scoop up and transport away from a situation without much hassle. Trust me, handling a flopping 3-year-old is far easier than reasoning with older siblings bickering over tablet time.
Threenagers combine the sweetness of toddlers with a touch more predictability. They’re often potty-trained and can stay in their own beds at night (though I emphasize “often”). They can engage in conversations, share jokes, and express their unique preferences. These little dynamos are full of energy, donning tutus and rainbow tights as they navigate the world with unshakeable confidence. They wear astronaut helmets around the house, convinced they’re destined for the stars, and sport tiaras like they own the universe. To them, there are no strict gender norms—only the things they love, and they make it clear.
While they may cry easily and display dramatic flair, threenagers also laugh, love, and forgive with remarkable ease. They might be labeled as unreasonable, but they are deeply in touch with their emotions and recognize the complexities of being a human in this chaotic world. Their perception isn’t merely black and white; it’s a kaleidoscope of colors and feelings. It’s a beautiful way to experience life.
Sure, parenting a 3-year-old can be challenging, just as every stage of childhood comes with its trials. However, amidst the ups and downs, threenagers are bundles of hope, optimism, and raw emotion. Each day is a vibrant celebration of life for these little explorers. And perhaps that’s what makes threenagers so truly remarkable.
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In summary, threenagers may be a handful, but their charm and zest for life make them unforgettable. Embrace the chaos, and you might just find that this stage is one of the most enjoyable.