Recently, I hosted a sleepover for my 12-year-old son and six of his friends. From this experience, I gathered several key observations about boys at this age:
- Girls Are a Mystery
Boys this age rarely discuss girls openly. If they do, they tend to use cryptic language that makes it sound like they are chatting about video games. If that’s the case, their conversations are heavily centered around girls. - Wrestling is a Favorite Pastime
They take any chance to engage in wrestling, often mimicking moves they’ve seen on television. If one gets hurt, they are quick to check on each other. However, if there’s no blood involved, concern is short-lived, often leading to accusations of faking injuries. As a parent, you can either ignore this or step in. I tried to mediate for safety, but ended up accidentally kicked in the process. - Horror Movies Captivate Them
After watching horror films, some boys prefer to sleep with the lights on, which I find rather endearing. - Debate is Their Language
Whether it’s cats versus dogs or Call of Duty versus Grand Theft Auto, any topic is fair game for a debate. Their arguments, however, can be based on misinformation. I once overheard: “Jeans don’t let your skin breathe.” - Bragging Rights
They often boast about mundane achievements or unlikely capabilities. One claimed he could whip up quesadillas, while another asserted he could rake an entire yard in just seven minutes. - Brand Loyalty is Fierce
Some boys won’t touch certain drinks, with one refusing 7Up in favor of Sprite. Another would only drink water if Mountain Dew wasn’t available (thankfully, I wasn’t offering any). One boy could even identify Trader Joe’s nacho cheese chips, which was apparently unacceptable. - Self-Regulating Behavior
Disputes among them often resolve without needing parental intervention. - Floor Sleeping Champions
They can comfortably sleep on the floor, as if they were camping out in an airport, with no mattress or sleeping bag required. - Deep Sleepers
Some of them sleep so soundly it resembles a coma. One boy completely missed a competitive Nerf basketball game happening directly above him. - Socks? What Socks?
Socks seem to be a non-issue, with them scattered throughout the house. When reminded to collect their socks, they often pretend not to hear. - A Unique Odor
The scent from their socks can be likened to a mix of stinky cheese, Fritos, and mildew, lingering for hours even after being collected and washed. - Charming Personalities
Many boys are polite, expressing gratitude for meals and checking in on me, while others hardly engage and leave without a word.
Navigating the transition between childhood and adolescence, my son and his friends embody a fascinating stage of development. Their presence encourages me to embrace my own changes and reminds me to occasionally do laundry.
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Summary:
In summary, 12-year-old boys are a unique blend of innocence and burgeoning maturity. They engage in playful wrestling, navigate friendships, and exhibit loyalty to brands, all while remaining oblivious to their surroundings at times. Their charming yet chaotic nature reminds us of the beauty in transition, both for them and for the parents guiding them.