a few reminders for parenting older kids

It’s easy to forget sometimes especially as desi or Pakistani parents that these tween-teen years are supposed to be like this .. big emotions, the attitudes.. it’s all age-appropriate.(* : linking a few interesting reads about the teenage brain at the end ; understanding can help us so much)

Their brains are still developing & bodies changing; and if you have a strong willed kid (more on that here), it’s just a whole different level of crazy haha. But also can feel so rewarding to watch our kids turn into mini version of their adult selves. Such a humbling experience…

A few reminders for parenting your strong-willed tween or younger teen (read these & knew I needed this list in front of me)

Praise every goodness.
Try to be a role model, with words, with actions, and most importantly, with how you offer love.
Try to not take her/his words personally. Give grace in times when it feels the hardest.
Stop nagging on the little things (like cleaning their room ..) instead write down a set of non-negotiable rules.
Stop punishing every wrongdoing; instead, tell them in as few words as possible what you expect of them.
Stop telling her/him what we think they should be doing; instead let them take ownership of their actions (that’s how all the important lessons will be learned).
Let them feel like they won sometimes.
Give up some control.
Make sure they always know they’re loved.

Also remember sometimes despite it all it will still be very hard. It’s okay.

Love, Nataliya