As graduation season rolls around, it’s a time when students of all ages—from preschoolers to PhD candidates—celebrate their achievements. With my eldest child now a high school senior, I’ve been warned about the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies this milestone. I’m supposed to reminisce about the heartwarming moments of his early years, yearning for the days when he was just a little boy. But honestly, I’m not feeling that way at all.
I’ve watched the kindergarten videos, sifted through second-grade report cards filled with sweet notes from teachers, and even unearthed some old baby photos and Mother’s Day cards from years past. Yet, despite all these precious memories, I’m not feeling the sentimental tug at my heartstrings that many parents seem to experience. So, what’s the deal?
Each year, a poignant poem circulates online, reflecting on the “lasts” we experience with our children. It poignantly describes moments like:
- The last time you pick them up on your hip.
- The last time they hold your hand while crossing the street.
- The last time they run to you with open arms.
While these sentiments are undeniably touching, right now, I’m just eager to help my 6-foot-1, snack-devouring, sock-leaving, smelly teenager transition to the next chapter of his life. In fact, I have my own list of “lasts” to share.
From the moment your child enters adolescence, everything shifts. You may find yourself reminiscing about the days when stepping into their room didn’t require a gas mask. Those days are long gone, along with their willingness to heed your advice.
These are the final days of receiving calls from the school informing you that your child left campus without permission. On one occasion, he effortlessly performed a perfect spinout in the parking lot, damaging someone’s car and taking out a light pole in the process.
Gone are the days when his bedroom was a haven for Legos and Hot Wheels; now it’s filled with every utensil you own, along with a collection of bowls and cups that still bear the remnants of last week’s cereal. But take heart—these moments won’t last forever.
Soon enough, you’ll log into your iTunes account and no longer see charges for an NCAA basketball app or questionable songs. One day, you won’t find your 18-year-old hitting golf balls into the neighbor’s window. And there will come a glorious day when he will pack up his collection of old underwear, moldy towels, and empty deodorant cans, thinking they are still usable. He will walk out the door, and that will be the last you hear of that car with its screeching start-up noise. Except, it probably won’t be.
So, forgive me for not feeling overly nostalgic or sentimental. He’s ready. He knows how to scavenge for food and utensils, how to pack up his belongings, and he’s certainly aware of personal hygiene. I’m confident he knows how to find his way back home, but let’s hope it’s not for the last time.
In the meantime, if you’re also navigating this transition and looking for ways to prepare for parenthood, there are many helpful resources available. For instance, you can explore options for family planning and pregnancy at the CDC, or check out this expert advice on parenting. And for those considering home insemination, the CryoBaby At-Home Insemination Kit is a great resource—check it out here.
Summary
Graduation season brings mixed emotions, especially for parents of high school seniors. While many reflect on sentimental memories, one mother shares her excitement about moving her son into his future, highlighting the humorous and challenging aspects of parenting a soon-to-be independent teenager.