A personal testimony from Melinda Taylor Schoutens, mom of teens and co-author of Fresh Air Kids
“Spending time with kids is more important than spending money on kids.” - Unknown
We now have a teenager in the house and a preschooler. It still takes me a while to write these words without getting emotional. Everyone said my kids would grow fast, that their baby years would go by in the blink of an eye, but when you're knee-deep in breastfeeding, changing diapers, worrying, and learning, while you can appreciate the importance of those words, you just can't look past the sleepless nights. Even though I was there for every cold, every tooth, and every milestone, my kids' baby years flew by. I still miss holding their chubby baby bodies in my arms as their warm bodies effortlessly melt into mine. I long to kiss the cheeks into which I have sunk, plump with milk and smiles.
Tips from Older Parents
Today we are in the midst of raising teenagers. I am filled with gratitude and awe for the people our children are becoming, but as we live through these years together, I find myself worrying about them in ways I never have before.
I have realized that as parents, we must learn to adapt to this new era of parenting and also rely on our own resources, just as they are learning and need their own tools.
One resource I rely on heavily is advice from friends who have already experienced this age group.
There is nothing better than turning to a mom who has been through it all! A good friend of mine is in her 70s and is such a phenomenal resource that every time we meet, I have to lean closer to her and get really quiet when I ask her for advice. As a long-time educator, author, and experienced mom, she is a treasure trove of valuable information. I encourage all families to seek advice from either their own parents or someone who has already navigated the teenage years and successfully completed them. When I talk to these mothers, I also find comfort in the fact that all families struggle to navigate the big and small problems that come with the teenage years. Families are never alone in their problems, which is very reassuring.
