Our middle child is a true character. When she was just 3 years old, we gifted her a baby doll, which she promptly and with complete sincerity named “Pony.” Not long after, she took to galloping across the living room on all fours—not crawling, but racing around making delightful clippity-clop sounds. Whenever she could, she’d trot, canter, whinny, and fully embody the spirit of a wild horse.
By the age of 7, her fascination shifted to cats. Her remarkable ability to sprint on all fours was still useful, but now she’d meow, purr, and even drink from a bowl like a true feline. For four consecutive birthdays, she chose cat-themed celebrations. Initially a hesitant reader, she devoured 42 novels in just six months after discovering the Warriors series about feral cats living in clans, battling for territory and food.
Recently, she’s embraced the persona of a bald eagle, showcasing an impressive ability to mimic any animal she studies closely. While her animal impersonations were charming in her younger years, they now come off as more quirky than cute at age 11. One day, she confided in me, tears in her eyes, because her friends were losing interest in playing “Warrior Cats.” It’s challenging for her to explain that this isn’t just a game to her; it’s a part of her identity. More than once, she has expressed a deep yearning to be an animal rather than a human, feeling more connected to the animal kingdom than the human one.
As a parent, it’s been a balancing act to guide her through a social landscape that doesn’t always align with her inner self. We want to nurture her creativity, passions, and enthusiasm while also preparing her for the fact that not everyone will appreciate her eccentricities. We aim to show her that some may see her as “weird,” but we don’t share that perception.
Homeschooling has allowed her to explore her uniqueness without the constant pressure of peer judgment. However, it hasn’t completely shielded her from the stereotype that homeschoolers are odd, especially when our child identifies as an animal.
The reality is, everyone has their quirks. The notion that there’s a standard for interests, personalities, or behaviors is simply untrue. Many suppress their true selves to fit societal expectations, while countless creators and innovators have changed the world by embracing their differences.
Who knows where her animal instincts will lead her? Perhaps one day, she’ll start an animal rescue, advocate for wildlife conservation, or study endangered species. Whatever path she takes, it will be hers to choose. Our goal is for her to recognize her quirks as strengths, and her “weirdness” as a vital part of her individuality.
That’s why we surprised her with personalized food and water bowls for her 9th birthday—to convey that we honor her uniqueness. Of course, we set some boundaries, like no eating like an animal at the dining table and using her bowls only when we’re alone, but that gift meant the world to her.
When other parents learned about the bowls, they thought we were unusual. But, hey, at least we know where she gets it!
If you have kids who don’t conform to the norm and march to the beat of their own drum, show them that you admire their individuality. Encourage them to shine their distinct light on the world, regardless of what others may think. Help them understand that being true to oneself requires courage and determination, but these qualities will guide them toward their dreams. And when they doubt themselves, remind them that everyone has their own brand of wonderful weirdness.
For more insights on parenting and embracing individuality, check out our other blog posts or visit Make a Mom for resources on home insemination. Additionally, Medical News Today provides excellent information on fertility and pregnancy.