Encouragement for Parents of Tweens and Teens

A recent study was released that revealed the most lonely stage of parenting. And the results are probably shocking to everyone besides those who are actually in that stage. Are you ready to know which one it is? Well, you might be surprised to know that moms who are raising middle schoolers are considered among the loneliest of any stage of motherhood. Yep. More than when they are babies and even more than when they leave the nest.

Why is this? Well, everything about this stage is just so WEIRD. Kids at this age are going through so many changes both emotionally and physically and we parents feel like we just have to buckle up for the roller coaster ride that is early adolescence. In addition, there are fewer and fewer opportunities for us to connect with other parents. Gone are the days of mommy groups and playdates at the park.  In addition, we are less likely to share what is really going on with our kids because we want to protect their privacy and often our own uncertainty about our parenting choices can make us hesitant to confide in others. Plus, the issues are far bigger now than they were when our kids were little. Gone are the fears of when they will be potty-trained and they are replaced with fears over choices that will affect the rest of their lives and our lives too.

So, in my efforts to help combat the loneliness, I’m determined to share some of what I’ve learned so far in this stage of parenting (this one is meant for those of you parenting tween/teen boys) and I hope that it will be an encouragement to you and a reminder that you aren’t alone.

Do you have any other tips or words of encouragement you could share? Or, maybe you’re struggling and just need a safe place to share. This is definitely that place! I’d love to hear from you.

And thank you as always for meeting me here at the fence,