Tag: independence
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Embracing the Joys of Parenting Without the Expectation of More
Get Pregnant Fast When I was a child, I adored playing with baby dolls. I’d rock them to sleep, swaddle them tightly, and dress them in a myriad of outfits. I even had one of those rather unsightly dolls that you could “feed,” only to have the water emerge from the other end—because, apparently, diaper…
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The Best Decision We Made for Our College-Bound Son
Get Pregnant Fast When our youngest son, Ethan, graduated from college, it marked the end of an era for me—a time when I managed everything from his allowance to his medical appointments, and even his thank you notes. Those days of being the all-in-one mom were behind me. Reflecting on Ethan’s journey, I recall defining…
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My Misguided Notion of Being a ‘Good Mom’ Led Me Astray
Get Pregnant Fast In my earlier days, I held a belief that being a good mom meant never running out of essentials like dishwasher pods, laundry detergent, toilet paper, or diapers. A tidy home that was always ready for guests and homemade snacks made daily were the hallmarks of motherhood in my mind. Tracking supplies…
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Feeling Disconnected from Your Teen: A Parent’s Perspective
Get Pregnant Fast I gently tap on the slightly ajar door before stepping inside. My teenage son is sprawled on his bed, his laptop glowing in front of him, music echoing softly from the speaker. I can’t quite tell if he’s focused on schoolwork, shopping online for the latest sneakers, or messaging his friends. Most…
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In Defense of Allowing Our Young Kids to Make Their Own Choices
Get Pregnant Fast I’ll never forget the day my son, Max, confidently declared, “I don’t want that!” as I attempted to dress him for a family event. I had chosen a charming little outfit, complete with a crisp collar and colorful accents. The exchange went something like this: Max, pulling at the hem of the…
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Summer Camp: A Mom’s Fears vs. the Reality
Get Pregnant Fast As summer approaches, many moms find themselves grappling with a whirlwind of emotions when it comes to sending their kids off to camp. The anticipation can quickly morph into a series of irrational fears that keep us up at night. Will they be safe? Will they make friends? What if they get…
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Essential Skills for Parents to Teach Food-Allergic Kids
Get Pregnant Fast When our son Ethan was diagnosed with food allergies, a wave of panic washed over me. I found myself spiraling into thoughts about his future. “How will he manage at sleepovers, handle dating, or travel abroad safely?” I lamented to my partner, who calmly reminded me, “He’s only 3. We have time…
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Navigating the Senior Year: Embracing the Essential Separation
Get Pregnant Fast As a parent witnessing your child’s senior year of high school, you’re not just preparing for college applications, recommendation letters, and test scores; you’re also engaging in the emotional journey of separation. This crucial phase requires both you and your teen to navigate the bittersweet transition as they prepare to step into…
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I Once Believed My Son Should Be ‘Dad’s Helper.’ Now I Understand My Daughter Needs These Skills Too.
Get Pregnant Fast The day after Christmas, I found myself in the attic with my 7-year-old daughter, Ella, hammering down plywood to create a much-needed storage space. The attic was dark, and both of us donned headlamps as we navigated through the cold, dusty space. The floor was precarious, with nothing but sheetrock between the…
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Independence Is Hindering Parents
Get Pregnant Fast When my younger son was a toddler, his favorite phrase was “Me-Me-Me.” Whenever my husband or I attempted to assist him with his shoes, a bowl of oatmeal, or getting into his car seat, he would push us away, exclaiming, “Me-Me-Me.” This was his way of saying, “I’ve got this, so back…