What parents soon forget about when having children is them growing up. You’re so used to them depending on you in so many various ways when they are born, it’s almost inconceivable that they won’t always need you. But usually around middle school age, children really begin to become who they are and what they want. If you’re starting to see this reality, don’t worry; it’s natural for both parties to begin this process of growing up, and for the parents to maybe feel a little sad.
Getting Older
Children never cease to amaze anyone they interact with. To believe we all started as eight-pound babies and have grown up is nothing short of a miracle. But being stuck in the past typically won’t do you any good, especially when it comes to child-rearing. You may have been thinking that you won’t have to worry about your kids being “mature” until high school, but that’s not always the case. Most children nowadays are growing up and maturing at much higher levels, both physically and emotionally, that it may even be before middle school as well. Ultimately, you can only move forward, and embrace the awesome individuals your children are growing up to be!
It Won’t Be Easy
Every child is different, and there’s no ultimate, written rule on when kids start growing up, becoming independent, or go through a “rebellious” stage. Some parents will talk about the terrible two’s while other parents had well-behaved toddlers through the years. Some parents will moan about their moody teenager, while others will say they’re already a best friend. Just because your child has begun middle school doesn’t mean they will automatically start distancing themselves. No matter what you experience, you need to realize it’s natural and a part of your child’s lives to grow up and start learning and maturing.
Most middle schoolers will want to do things on their own, whether they really know how to do the activities or not! But that’s beside the point – if your middle schooler is wanting to do something, let them! Every experience is going to be a learning journey for you and them, and it will give you a chance to potentially bond or at least talk about the experience.
Be Brave
However, your middle schooler is growing up, and however you feel, don’t try to hide those emotions or actions. Be in tune with how all these changes are affecting you and potentially the rest of the household. Be open to trying new activities or to simply let go of the reins, depending on what your kids want!
Katie Kyzivat