Never ask ‘What did you do today?’ or ‘How was your day?’ Save your breath. Instead, engage in random chatter about absolutely nothing and, eventually, your kids will tell you all about their day albeit in fits and starts and twisted paths down blind alleys.
From the minute they are born, the world ceases to revolve around you; it revolves around them.
They really do like to hear ‘I love you.’ Even teenagers need to be hugged everyday. Affection is a good thing but not in front of peers.
When teenage peers are present, it is best to brush up on your invisible parent act. But you still need to provide plenty of food and drink.
Singing along (loudly) and dancing (badly) to Abba songs is an instant pick-me-up. Perks: It’s free, has no calories and it won’t give you a hangover.
If you are undecided about which outfits and shoes make you look ‘frumpy’ ask your kids.
It’s not cool to use your teenager’s slang-uage. Even if you do know what it means and, possibly, even invented it long before they were born.
Don’t take yourself too seriously. If you can’t laugh at yourself, your kids will do it for you.
Perfectionism is overrated but laughter, spontaneity and good listening is not.
Don’t give them the satisfaction of watching you lose your cool. When you are shouting at them, they are secretly chortling and high five-ing each other behind your back.
Nutritious food, plenty of water and a good night’s sleep takes care of a multitude of ailments.
Don’t say anything about your neighbours or family members that you don’t want repeated.
In the not so distant future, in what seems no longer than the life of a mayfly, you will wake up and realize that the housework is still there but the kids are not.
Stay in the moment. It’s all we’ve got.
Dear So and So...Proving A Point
14 years ago
