As parents, we often find ourselves attributing various behaviors in our children to teething—an explanation that seems to fit the bill for incessant drooling and nighttime awakenings. However, a recent article in Slate suggests that teething usually results in minimal symptoms, indicating it might not be the root cause we think it is.
Like many caregivers caught in the exhausting cycle of nighttime cries and attempts at soothing, I longed to provide my child with relief from discomfort, while also seeking to label and understand her experiences—and my own. It’s tempting to point to teething as an easy explanation for what might actually be a more complex situation.
After fifteen years in the parenting landscape, I still grapple with questions and seek solutions for a multitude of irritations. When my son complains of a stomachache, my mind races to worst-case scenarios like appendicitis, instead of considering the possibility that he might just be nervous about an upcoming math test.
When my 12-year-old daughter is in a bad mood, I instinctively offer her an apple, assuming hunger is the issue, rather than accepting that mood swings are a normal part of being twelve. My 15-year-old son, while no longer drooling, keeps late hours and often displays irritability. I wonder if his wisdom teeth are coming in, if he’s feeling peer pressure, or if he’s simply navigating the hormonal rollercoaster that comes with adolescence. Would a heart-to-heart conversation help? Does he need an Advil? A hug?
In moments like these, I find myself a mother in search of answers, often late at night. One of the most challenging realities I’ve had to face is that simple solutions are often not available. My daughter may be experiencing test anxiety, suffering from a health issue, or just putting off bedtime. My tween could be hungry, fatigued, or simply navigating their own emotional landscape—no amount of apples will fix that.
As for my teenager, he could be staying up late texting, reading comics, or engaging in activities I’d rather not consider. His late-night habits might stem from wisdom teeth issues, academic stress, or an emotional struggle that remains unspoken. Adolescents, much like babies, often communicate non-verbally, especially when they’re upset, leaving many questions unanswered.
Parenting is a journey filled with uncertainties. Each identifiable issue we can name gives us a sense of control, but perhaps the more profound lesson lies in accepting that not every problem can be solved or every discomfort soothed. This acceptance might just be the key to navigating the complexities of parenting successfully.
For more resources on home insemination, you can check out our other blog posts here. Additionally, if you’re considering options related to artificial insemination, this link provides excellent insights into the topic. For those interested in understanding the IVF process, this article from Parents is an excellent resource.
In summary, parenting often leaves us with more questions than answers, and while we may seek to label and solve every discomfort, sometimes the best approach is to embrace the uncertainty and navigate the journey with patience and understanding.