“The TeenageYears: Parenting Through the Eye Rolls, Door Slams, and Big Feels”

Introduction
No one warned us that the hardest part of parenting might come after the diapers, teething, and sleepless nights. The teenage years are full of contradictions: they’re craving independence while still needing guidance, pushing boundaries while watching to see if we’ll hold the line. As moms, it can feel like we’re constantly chasing connection while learning to let go. But these years—challenging as they may be—are just another chapter in the story of growing up together.

1. Redefining Our Role
During childhood, we’re the center of their universe—caregiver, protector, comforter. But teens need us in a different way. They need a coach, not a commander. A listener, not a lecturer. It’s okay to grieve the shift, but it’s even more important to lean into the new role with grace. Your presence, even when unacknowledged, still matters more than you know.

2. Choose Connection Over Control
Teenagers may test limits, but what they’re often really testing is: Can I still come to you when I mess up? Will you still love me when I fail? Create a home culture where emotions are welcome, honesty is rewarded, and mistakes are met with empathy—not judgment. The more emotionally safe your home feels, the more your teen will turn to you when it really counts.

3. Be the Calm in Their Storm
Hormones, social pressures, identity struggles—your teen’s world can feel like a storm. When their mood swings or silence take over, our instinct might be to fix it or get frustrated. But they don’t need us to react; they need us to stay steady. Keep the door open, even if they’re slamming theirs.

4. Keep Showing Up (Even When They Push Away)
Teenagers may act like they don’t want you around—but deep down, they still do. Keep inviting them to dinner. Keep texting them good luck before a test. Keep making the effort. Consistency builds trust. And one day, when they really need someone, they’ll remember: Mom’s always been there.

5. Don’t Take It Personally
This one’s hard. They roll their eyes. They act annoyed by your voice. They treat you like an afterthought one minute and cry in your arms the next. Remember: their job is to separate. Yours is to stay grounded. This isn’t about you—it’s about their journey to becoming their own person.

6. Celebrate the Good Moments
They still laugh at your jokes (sometimes). They still light up when you say “I’m proud of you.” Capture the wins. Hold onto the shared jokes, late-night talks, inside stories. These moments matter more than any perfectly executed parenting strategy.

Closing: Grace for You, Too
Parenting teens isn't for the faint of heart. You’ll doubt yourself. You’ll feel unappreciated. But you’re doing sacred work—loving someone who’s figuring out how to love themselves. So extend the same compassion to yourself that you’re trying to give your child.

You’re not alone in this. And you’re doing better than you think.