I’m doing my best to be patient with my 8-year-old son, but he’s reached that age where talking back seems like his favourite pastime. It’s like I have a broken record on repeat, constantly repeating myself a hundred times.
Today, he came home from school clutching a blue Freezee. I watched him eagerly reach for his phone to indulge in his favourite game, Roblox. But hold on, buddy, there are rules in this house.
I kindly remind him to put away his backpack and clear his lunch, just like any other day .Simple, right? Nope. He half-heartedly throws his lunch bag in its place, and I have to play the “slow down” chorus. And then, disaster strikes. Blue Freezee is everywhere. As expected, his enthusiasm for playing his game overshadowed his inclination to follow my instructions.
The hurried cleanup resulted in a mess, with blue freeze scattered across the table and floor. My request for him to clean up after himself further revealed his disinterest and annoyance
In the midst of this mess, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness. Lately, I’ve been spending so much time with my newborn that I haven’t had a chance to spend time with him like I used to. He’s growing up, and I’m missing those bedtime stories and heart-to-heart talks about his friends. It’s like we’re drifting apart, and it breaks my heart.
My First Baby
Now, while I’m here pouring my heart out in bed, my husband is taking the baby for a walk.
Tonight, I’ve decided we need to have a chat, my son and I. I know he’s probably thinking he’s in trouble, poor guy. But the truth is, I just want to connect with him and let him know that he’s becoming a big boy. It might seem like I’m nagging, but I’m really just trying to teach him to be responsible and independent. I don’t want eye-rolls and frustration to be the norm between us.
I still remember taking this picture. Time goes so fast.
Parenting is a juggling act, my friends. We’re constantly trying to find that sweet spot between guiding our kids and giving them space to grow. Sure, there will be moments of frustration along the way, but it’s how we handle them that truly matters. Communication is key – we need to let our kids know that we’re there for them, even when we’re busy with life’s demands. And let’s not forget to carve out special moments to reconnect, to relish in the laughter and the precious talks that make our parent-child bond stronger.
So, all this to say; communicate, connect, and find that delicate balance between guidance and independence.
Reclaiming MomBod 