I have raised two boys who are full grown now. Try not to forget what it was like being a kid and it may make things easier later on. I have traveled to many foreign countries in business and in the service and I have seen a universal phenomenon. When kids turn 12 or 13 they don't seem to like you very much. Just remember that it is not your fault. It's genetics and hormones and not something you did or didn't do. 300 years ago kids at 12 or 13 were raising families. They were generals at 21 and "over the hill" at 45. Kids at 12 or 13 are young adults. It's perfectly natural for them to rebel. Their hormones are telling them that it's time to leave the nest as adults but our society dictates that they are still children for another 4 or 5 years. What a terrible predicament this must be. They are literally begging you to throw them out of the nest, but of course you can't and wouldn't hopefully. Just try to remember what it was like. When they get a little older they will be your best friend. Congratulations on the birth of your child. You will live forever vicariously through them.
very true.
I was 20 years old when my parents had 2 more kids. both boys, a year apart. I was like their fun "parent" all through my 20's and into my 30's. I loved them and spent alot of time with them. Then when they turned 15, i did not get calls everyday and they didnt want to hang with me as much. it stung.
Now, in my 40's, I had two kids of my own. I learned alot from my two younger brothers on how time flies and how it stings when they get older. I cherish everyday with my 4 and 5 year old.
The best way to keep your kids from rebelling and leaving home (out of state) is to lead a killer life yourself. Dont be a boring parent that just barks orders to them and sits on your but watching TV. Build a life for yourself that is attractive and interactive. I want to live such that if my kids were to move away, it would be a downgrade for them. No one voluntarily downgrades themselves.
I want to help them find their true calling in life. Help them develop a successful niche that they create "ties" and are happy to stay close and not feel the call to venture off. My daughter is an animal lover. Maybe I start volunteering with her on the weekends helping at the local veterinarian so she sees business and medical side of animal care throughout her teenage years. By the time she is 18, she will be a pro, know everyone in town and have a head start on her journey. Kids are damn smart and there is no reason to think you cant set them up with a pathway at an early age that they can enjoy as a kid and also parlay into a living as an adult. My son, maybe we build his first go-kart together, then his first car. By the time he is 18, he has a corner in my shop and he is cranking out beautiful fabrication pieces with a growing customer base for himself. I just think your child's career and finding their calling in life starts at a very young age. Be their biggest fan, best supporter. Go through the highs and lows with them. What kid would rebel against that?
Congrats on little Jonah. he is a keeper.
JLJ = cool initials. there is a great logo in there somewhere
