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Latin for "Remember that you [have to] die." This Halloween special brings raising your teen, life, and death into focus. Learn the whole story. Staying true to the CurlyStache mission, only opinionated and grounded in facts. Start Here! Blogs More More Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Find us on Social! >>> The Mashup: Short Raising Teens Blog Entries. Opinionated. Grounded in Facts. 005 - 10.28.23 Memento Mori: Happy Halloween "Remember that you [have to] die." Yeah, that's eerie enough, and when spoken in Latin, "Memento mori" seems to give it that much more of a breathtaking vibe of mortality and inevitability. Tis the season: Halloween, filled with all the gore, skulls, bones, creeps, witches, and death you can handle, giving you that much more of a chance to think about the true meaning of memento mori. Even the universe wants you to remember the fragility of life—you, your teen, and everybody you love in life. Nature wants you to experience its potential onslaught yearly: The days get shorter, darker, and colder, with noticeable brisk winds. Exposed plants start dying off, and trees shrivel, showing their bare bark with a false sense of beauty as the colorful leaves float around. Animals, big and small, begin scurrying around frantically, looking for new homes and hibernating nests to prevent certain death. As it becomes colder, it becomes a mere whisp of memory of how lively it was not even a month ago. It's always good to be humble and keep the perspective that, despite being intelligent humans, we are and will never be immune to memento mori. Should we dwell on it and become fearful and paranoid that we could die? Does this mean we must amp up our safety game and take more precautions? The answer to both: HARD NO. On the contrary, we should do the exact opposite. If you are in denial about dying, stop. It is the ONLY thing that is a 100% guarantee in life: death. Come to grips. Memento mori is real; we will all have our fateful day, but right now, if you are reading this, you are ALIVE! Enjoy everything life has to offer and make the most of everything! Life is a beautiful thing. No, I'm not talking about hugging a tree or safely capturing a gnat to release it outside instead of killing it (unless you want to; remember, you do you!). All I am saying is that every damn thing has its own beauty. Cherish it. Without it, you wouldn't be here, and you wouldn't be who you are. That said, next time you see that person you can't stand, that jerk you work with, or whatever the case, despite the anguish you feel, I want you to think, even for the smallest of moments, "I am alive! And I'm free to feel this way, to have these emotions, to be royally pissed and annoyed, and hell, without them being alive too, I couldn't feel this way." Yeah, it's a unique way of looking at it, but it is true. Cherish all you have, the good and evil, and everything in between because that makes you alive. When raising teens today, remember that their confusing, chaotic emotions and behaviors are, in essence, the same as yours. There are two primary differences between you feeling that way and your teen feeling that way, making them confusing and chaotic. The first is that you have maturity, and the second is that you have wisdom. As you raise them and they grow, you must fill the void of wisdom and maturity for them until they have their own. If you fail to fill that void, it could lead to unnecessary mistakes and growing pains that could have been avoided, possibly and critically, including a premature memento mori-type situation. Nevertheless, enjoy life and hold your teen, family, and all loved ones close, and never let go. One day, the time will come, and the inevitability of death and all that ties us together will be here. So, enjoy the colorful leaves, jack o'lanterns, children and teens trick or treating, holiday parties, corn mazes, haunted houses, hot cider, and hundreds of other holiday festivities that Holloween, All Hollow's Eve, or All Saints' Eve has to offer! Above all else, keep your kids and teens safe, know where they are and with whom, be present for them, get festive and enjoy the holiday, and tell them you love them because there is a 100% chance of memento mori and a 0% chance of knowing when! Happy Halloween, everyone! Until next time! Date Saturday, October 28, 2023 Share Blog Episode 005 - "Memento Mori: Happy Halloween" (Copy Again) Copy Link Relativity Help us spread the word! This is how we grow and flourish as a blog and website. From me to you and your friends. https://www.curlystache.com/mashup/memento-mori What? So, what exactly is the Mashup? Precisely as it sounds: a blend of online writing styles in a format ranging from storytelling and structured to opinionated to factual, formal to casual, and personal to professional—all while ensuring we keep true to the CurlyStache mission of guiding teenagers and raising teens today in a volatile society. The Mashup is designed to be more opinionated, grounded in facts, less researched, and directed to spark ideas and discussions. When? During the weeks I cannot get a blog out, I will fill that void with a Mashup entry. Remember to follow us on Facebook @CurlyStache Blogs and through all your favorite social media outlets to get notified of the newest releases! And be sure to share it with friends and families that could benefit! Why? I enjoy writing and expressing my opinions on essential issues when raising teens today. There are times throughout the week when I cannot get to my computer as much as I would like—or cannot do my due diligence and research a blog to present it how I want it and still be backed by facts. This fills the void. Short articles containing whatever is on my mind grounded in current events relating to parenting and teen issues, writing in whatever style vibing at the time. ▲ Back to Top Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> CurlyStache Blogs: A division of CurlyStache, www.curlystache.com . | Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Copyright notice: All images on this page, including all pages within the https://www.curlystache.com domain, are fully licensed or created for the sole purpose of this website. For additional information, please contact us at admin@curlystache.com

Unveil the allure of body piercings: a striking, flexible choice over tattoos. Gain wisdom on teen self-expression and make empowered decisions with our guide. Raising Teens Today Who Want Body Piercings A Personal Experience Part I of the 2-part series In this first part of the two-part series, I will take you down the road of my teenhood, giving perspective from an 18-year-old's eye and the thought process through it all. Doing this will reveal the pros of body piercings to balance out some of the stereotypical cons associated with the body shrapnel. Looking for advice on raising teens today regarding wanting a body piercing? Check out Raising Teens Today Who Want Body Piercings: Handling the Situation Read Article! 👉 The article covers excellent techniques, critical methods , and essential parenting dos (and don'ts!) to ensure the best possible outcome Jump to a Section : This article is a personal blog, a short story from a time when I went through this as a teen. Read on for the whole tale of this delinquent juvenile—or jump to a particular section of the post that you are looking for or find intriguing: ►Prologue: Step Back In Time For A Moment ►Stop Me - I'm 18! ▪ Today's the Day ►Thought Process ▪ Nipple Piercings ▪ More Body Piercings! ►But Why? ►Conclusion ►Comments Raising Teens Today Who Want Body Piercings: A Personal Experience Written By Dan Currie Published: May 15, 2023 Prologue : Step Back In Time For A Moment In the blog posts, "How to properly handle your teen wanting a tattoo - part I & part II, " that I wrote five weeks ago, I discussed my opinion on tattoos and what parents can do to connect with young adults to help them make an informed, responsible decision. In the first part, I let you know my personal experience regarding my decision to get a tattoo when I turned 18. If you recall, I was adamant about not getting a tattoo because I was not confident I would like what I got when I matured, and my tastes changed. I refused to get a tattoo because I knew deep down inside my core that I was too immature for one. I realized the odds weren't in my favor and that I probably wouldn't like whatever design or placement I may have chosen back then. ~ Dan Currie, How to properly handle your teen wanting a tattoo - part I Stop Me - I'm 18! What I left out of the story a month ago was that instead of tattoos, I went for body piercings, knowing that they are only semi-permanent and would heal if I took them out. Yes, leading up to my 18th birthday, my heart was set on obtaining some body shrapnel. So within a few days after turning 18, I scheduled an appointment to get my first piercings at our local tattoo and piercing shop. Today's the Day My girlfriend, who was already 18, took me to get my body piercings. She had body piercings already, quite a few of them, so she knew what the deal was and what I was in for. We walked in; the inked-out tattoo artists greeted us, and I filled out the forms and, in no time, was getting ready to be poked with a 10-gauge needle. Thought Process Once again, as stated in the 1st part of the tattoo blog , I have a knack for thinking big picture and thinking things through when it comes to permanent or semi-permanent decisions. With body piercings, I wanted something bold that stood out, made me feel like a badass, and made my friends in awe and envious at the same time. On the flip side, I needed to make it subtle, preferably hideable, since I worked at a grocery store with conservative values- not to mention my authoritarian parents (see my post, "What THE? Parenting advice: Raise them without being overbearing - PART IV " for what authoritarian parents are like). Nipple Piercings After careful consideration, I chose two piercings. Each nipple received a 10-gauge bar horizontally—and, of course, with spikes. I was already planning for bigger and better if my plans went as predicted. My thought process was perfect. It was bold; it made girls cringe and think it was hot simultaneously, while guys thought I was a badass, and my friends were excited for me, all approving. As a bonus: not only did my employers not know (or need to know) about it, but my parents didn't either, as I always ensured I kept a shirt on. More Body Piercings! Later on, after my parents found out and I had left my job at the grocery store, I got bigger and better with the body piercings. The most notable piercings include: ♦ A Lebret piercing, specifically a spike below my lower lip. ♦ Figuring I should finally do more with my nipple piercings, I resized them from 10-gauge to 8-gauge by pushing larger-sized bars into them. And if that wasn't good enough, I dropped them from 8-gauge to 6-gauge using the same technique a few months later. ♦ The last piercing I had done, and perhaps the most unique and eye-raising of them (literally, I suppose), was the bridge of my nose between my eyes. But Why? "Why would you want to do that to your body?" So was the frequent question asked by my parents and more conservative people I knew. The answer was simple: I loved piercings. I loved how they became a part of me, the glimmer of the metal, the ability to change out the bar depending on my mood, how people looked at me, and how this was something I decided to do to my body without anybody else's influence. In Conclusion Raising teens today and guiding teenagers that are sincere about wanting body piercings is something we must seriously consider when they come to us about it. If they are 18, they have a legal right, so we must respect it. Remember, unlike tattoos, body piercings are a better option for young adults since they can heal if one day they no longer desire them - much like me. Around age 20-21, I finally removed all of my body piercings, primarily because of the industry I was working in, the beginning of my career as a cable technician. Regardless, my beliefs regarding body piercings have always been that I approve of them as long as they are well thought out and not done out of spite or peer pressure. Body piercings, like tattoos, are a distinctive form of self-expression and art and should be recognized and honored as such. Your Opinion Matters! Leave a comment. Let us know what you think! comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Discover the top 3 teen stressors. Gain parental strategies to help manage teen stress from the relentless world of academics, social media, and societal pressures. Teen Wellness & Managing Teen Stress: Parental Strategies GT Mashup Blog: Episode 011 Written By : Daniel Currie Published On : 2 /22 /2024 Relativity Rating: Adolescence What's this? I Get It—Really. Navigating the teen years with my son has been one hell of a ride. Between the relentless academic grind, the social media circus, and the suffocating societal expectations, it’s like navigating a minefield blindfolded. But here’s the kicker—I’ve seen these battles up close and personal, and I’m telling you, they’re not unbeatable. With a bit of grit, a shit-ton of savvy strategies, and a whole lot of heart, we can steer our teens through this chaos. Here’s the scoop on the top three pressures that seem impossible but are actually more like speed bumps, assuming we hit them with the right mindset. Academic Expectations: Fostering a Growth Mindset The academic rat race can be a real bitch. It’s not about pushing our kids to hit the books harder; it’s about inspiring them to embrace the grind for what it is—a chance to grow. ► Prioritize Learning Over Grades Hammer it home that the real win is in understanding, not just acing tests. It’s the journey, with all its fuck-ups and victories, that counts. ► Set Realistic Goals Sit down with them to set goals that stretch them without breaking them. It’s about striking that perfect balance where they’re pushed but not to the point of snapping. ► Encourage Breaks and Self-Care All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, right? Push them to find hobbies that give their brains a rest. A little downtime can do wonders, recharging their mental batteries and keeping burnout at bay. Social Media: Cultivating Digital Wellbeing Social media can be a double-edged sword—a source of inspiration or a pit of despair. Teaching our teens to navigate this digital jungle is key to maintaining their sanity. ► Follow Inspiring People Influence them to curate a feed that lights a fire in their bellies, not one that drowns them in comparison and self-doubt. ► Limit Nighttime Use No phones in bed. Period. The blue light is a sleep-sucking vampire. Encourage them to read or listen to music instead. ► Promote Creation Over Consumption Urge them to be the voice, not just an echo. Creating content, whether it’s art, writing, or videos, empowers them and beats mindless scrolling any day. Societal Expectations: Embracing Individuality Screw the cookie-cutter version of success. Our teens need to know that it’s their quirks and oddities that make them extraordinary, not their ability to conform. ► Discuss Different Success Stories Show them examples of people who tore up the rulebook and wrote their own success stories. It’s about highlighting the diversity of paths to fulfillment. ► Encourage Exploration Prod them to try everything and anything. The best lessons are often learned through spectacular failures and the courage to try again. ► Validate Their Feelings The pressure to fit in can be overwhelming. Make it clear that their value doesn’t come from meeting everyone else’s damn expectations but from being fiercely and unapologetically themselves. Conclusion Steering our teens through these stormy years is about empowering them to navigate life’s bullshit with their heads held high. My own journey with my son has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but damn, it’s been worth every moment. It’s shown me that with the right approach, we can transform those mountains of pressure into molehills. Craving more unfiltered, straight-talking advice? Check out our other Mashup Blogs. They’re your arsenal for tackling the teen years with a blend of grit, grace, and a middle finger to those who say it can’t be done. Together, let’s rewrite the rulebook on raising teens, turning pressure into purpose, one badass step at a time. Until Next Time... Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Help us spread the word! Share this article across all your favorite platforms now!

This rasing teens blog contains the top 5 essential parenting dos to prepare your teen for the school year 2023 with back-to-school habits. In addition, how to get organized, plan school shopping, and address your expectations for your teen. Other critical items outlined in this post include planning transportation and what to expect if your child starts a new school. Start Here! Blogs More More Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Find us on Social! >>> Raising Teens Today and the 5 Essential Parenting Dos for Going Back to School in 2023 Kick your feet up, bathe in the sun, enjoy family time around the campfire, and vacation with your loved ones. Now that it's August, there is little time left to enjoy the summer spectacles with your kids and teens before it's back to the grind of school. In this raising teens blog post, we will cover essential parenting dos and don'ts when getting your children ready to start the school routine back up in full swing with the top 5 essential parenting dos to prepare your teen for the school year. Jump to a Section : Raising Teens Today and the 5 Essential Parenting Dos for Going Back to School in 2023 Written By Dan Currie Published: August 14, 2023 ╔ Intro (top of page) ╠ #1 : Back to School Habits and Sleep ║ ║ ║ ╠ #2 : School Shopping ║ ║ ╠ #3 : Get Organized ║ ║ ║ ╠ #4 : Expectations ║ ║ ║ ║ ║ ╠ #5 : Transportation ║ ║ ║ ╠ Conclusion ╠ BONUS #6 ╚ Comments ├ Start Small: Curfew ├ How Much Sleep? └ Sleep Schedule Mastered ├ The Essentials └ The Wearables ├ Old School Calendar ├ School Schedule └ Open-Campus Programs & Lunches ├ Summer vs. School Rules ├ The Usual Expectations ├ Phone & Electronics ├ Off-School Hours, On-Campus └ Rule Changes & Refreshers ├ School Bus ├ Private Rides └ Extracurricular & Communication Back to School Habits and Sleep Start Small: Curfew When raising teens today, whether physically or mentally, a developing mind and body require regular routines to rely on so the mind and body don't work overtime and become tired and run down. As you can imagine, this is critical for teens returning to school. A simple curfew is a good starting point to transition your teen from summer to school life . Curfews are an excellent way to allow some downtime at night and begin forming your teen's routine , which can help prepare them for the upcoming sleep schedules and school routines. How Much Sleep? A constant, stable sleep schedule is paramount. We all need a dependable sleep schedule of 8 hours to repair and recharge our bodies and sharpen our minds efficiently. Our teens, however, per the CDC, require 8 to 10 hours ; tweens even more, ranging between 9 and 12 hours of sleep per 24-hour period. We must ensure our children are well-rested for school, which will assist in staying focused throughout the school day and not feeling lethargic while boosting their mood and behavior . How much sleep someone needs depends on their age. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has recommended that children aged 6–12 years should regularly sleep 9–12 hours per 24 hours and teenagers aged 13–18 years should sleep 8–10 hours per 24 hours. - CDC Healthy Schools Sleep Schedule Mastered It is important to note that teens are naturally wired to stay up late and sleep in . If your teen is a night owl and has been staying up late, start by allowing them to continue, but make sure they wake up 8 to 10 hours later , not excessively sleeping in . Gradually push the time back by an hour every few days or week. Keep doing this until you reach the time they need to be in bed on a school night, ensuring they wake up the next morning like it is a school day. Establish this routine for at least five days before the start of the school year to prevent trouble getting up and staying awake throughout the day. School Shopping The Essentials Most schools require essential items such as pens, notebooks, folders, and binders—and nowadays, this may include electronics such as earbuds; make a list so everything is remembered. Typically schools will also send out information regarding the basic materials needed , be mindful of this and watch for it in your mail, email, or school website . If it is not feasible to acquire the items, reach out to your local school district , which will usually assist in supplying them or direct you to an assistance program . The Wearables Along the lines of school supplies, another trendy topic is school clothes . Ensure it does not violate school policies when buying your teen school clothes , despite what your child may like. If your school mandates uniforms , ensure your child follows these guidelines , and you purchase any clothing not included with the uniform, such as undergarments or gym clothes , if applicable. Pro tip : as all parents with teenage kids know, they grow like weeds! Think about going a size up if they are in their growth spurt. Get Organized Old School Calendar This topic makes sailing very smooth if you can capitalize on it . The more organized you can get, the less hectic, chaotic, and stressful it will be . As stated in the previous topic, create a list of items needed for school and discuss it with your teen to confirm that you remember everything. Then sit down with them and make a calendar of their upcoming events ; put your affairs on the calendar there with theirs . Doing this is particularly helpful if your teen participates in sports, clubs, or other extracurricular activities. Now you and your teen can better tackle future conflicts and address them head-on before it becomes problematic. School Schedule Continue being proactively organized and ensure your teen receives their schedule from the school so they know where they are supposed to be and when; most schools will send home the school schedule a few weeks beforehand via mail or email . They may take frequent outside or off-campus classes, such as an environmental sciences class. It is essential to check and see that no permission slips or release forms need to be signed to participate in their class or activities. Sit with your teen and discuss their schedule actively , asking them about their schedule, the classes they are taking, and what is involved in each class. Open-Campus Programs & Lunches Many high schools hold an open-campus program for seniors or students with excellent grades allowing them to arrive late, leave early, or leave the school property during study hall or lunch periods . If your teen has these privileges, ensure the proper documentation and forms are signed if you approve of them enjoying that benefit. If these benefits do not pertain to your teen or they cannot leave for lunch, ensure you have a plan for their lunches . Plan it out . Are they buying lunch from the cafeteria or paper-bagging it? If packing their lunch is the way to go, plan and stay organized: make a lunch calendar . It doesn't necessarily mean certain days eat certain meals or even the same meals daily unless you choose to. Instead, utilize the calendar like a shopping list , ensuring you have everything you need until the next shopping trip. Be sure to add healthy snacks on there too ! When doesn't a teen stop eating? Expectations Summer vs. School Rules There should also be a time to sit down with your teen and review some ground rules, or expectations , for when school begins. For example, summer vacation rules typically are more lax because it is precisely that: vacation. Explain to them what you, as their parents expect regarding their behavior, responsibilities, housework, curfews, friends, and work life , if applicable. Along that notion, ensure they understand your expectations of the school's rules . It could mean explaining what will happen if you get a phone call from the school because they are missing a class; this way, there are no surprises if and when that incident happens. The Usual Expectations Cover most logical situations , such as skipping school, participating in fights, failing subjects, substance abuse, or disrespect . Explain the consequences at home in conjunction with any school punishments . Doing this will make them more likely to think their decision through , knowing that the consequences could be compounded. Lastly, include items you want them to avoid bringing to school from home , such as something of great value. Phone & Electronics Discuss the phone and electronics policies for your school , and if there are additional rules regarding their phone, Internet usage , etc., Ensure you address them, confirming they understand what could happen if the school and home rules are violated . Off-School Hours, On-Campus If your teen plans on riding the school bus or is involved in athletic or other extracurricular activities before or after school , do due diligence , research the expectations , and confirm their understanding . Let this also include general school property rules and etiquette when school is not in session. Rule Changes & Refreshers While discussing some of this with your teen is considered expected and common knowledge and therefore seems unnecessary, I assure you it is essential to discuss . Taking an evening a few weeks before school to let them know what you expect is a good refresher every year —and as they get older, perhaps the rules change and bend as they mature. This essential "brush up on rules" is also an excellent time to get your teen's input , incorporate changes , reflect on the past, and look to the future . Transportation Planning School Bus The final item to ensure you cover is transportation . First and foremost, determine whether your teen will be taking the school bus or something private . If they are utilizing the school bus, gather the necessary information from the bus garage or school distric t, including the pick-up time, location (if not at your residence), and drop-off time and place . Check with the school; bus forms may be required to ride . Private Rides If your teen is not taking the school bus, decide what is best for your teen's transportation needs and involve them throughout the process so they are in the know and can ask questions along the way . Depending on your proximity to the school, parenting work/activity schedules, climate, and many other possibilities, determine the best transportation options and for what days . Whether it's driving them to school, they are old enough to drive themselves, walk, skate, bike, carpool, or whatever—it is critical to go over the details and communicate it as a family . Be sure to include the family or friend in a carpool situation so that a ride is not missed and, crucially, for their safety . Extracurricular & Communication School clubs, athletics, and other activities like marching band may require early drop-off or late pick-up. Make plans for this as early as possible , utilizing carpooling with teammates/classmates and other parents if necessary. Just as important as securing a ride to or from their activity, make sure to let their usual method of transportation know the days your teen will not need a ride . Communication is critical regarding transportation needs , whether courtesy or safety ; it is one thing never to be overlooked . In Conclusion Returning to school tugs on all sorts of emotions during this time of year. The excitement and anticipation of entering a new grade and seeing old friends, the anxiety of a challenging subject, the dread of school itself, and the appreciation of climbing the mountain of books to be rewarded with an A+. It is our job as parents to set our teens up for success. We must deliver the fastball down the middle to them, ensuring they are ready for the year ahead by following the 5 Essential Parenting Dos for Going Back to School in 2023. If we do this correctly and the pitch is perfect, they will have no problem knocking it out of the park, making us the proud parents we are! Lastly, before I close this blog out, I want to leave you with a personal bonus step that frequently gets overlooked; especially with those teens having to make a new start in a strange new environment. Please indulge in "A New Start" and know that we haven't forgotten about you, those going through an entirely different phase in your life. To those of you, I wish you the best of luck in your journey! A New Start For those parents and teens who are beginning a new chapter in their life with a move to a new school district: Parents, we can handle a move to a new town, but please remain sensitive and understanding that it is one of the most challenging things your teen will have to undergo to that point in their school careers. Here is a list of things to keep doing for them: Support them emotionally, and follow their lead ; if they need space, give it to them , but ensure they know you are there for them no matter what. If they act out, and reprimanding them is required, try not to limit their social devices unless absolutely necessary so they can continue to see and communicate with old friends and family members in their former town. Allow for weekend trips or day trips back to their former hometown until they begin making new friends to help prevent possible depression and homesickness . It will take about half of the school year for them to fully transition , begin making close friends, and establish a social life; remember, they are going through a lot during this period . Your Opinion Matters! Leave a comment. Let us know what you think! comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. ▲ Back to Top Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> CurlyStache Blogs: A division of CurlyStache, www.curlystache.com . | Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Copyright notice: All images on this page, including all pages within the https://www.curlystache.com domain, are fully licensed or created for the sole purpose of this website. For additional information, please contact us at admin@curlystache.com

This article will introduce a foolproof way of removing bias, prejudice, and bigotry to allow you to step back and view your relationship with your teen from the outside in. In addition, we will present ways to realize your strengths and weaknesses, further empowering you to encourage and humble yourself as a parent. Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> You are Here: CurlyStache | How to Evaluate Your Parenting Skills: Parenting with Aplomb Privacy Policy | Cookies Policy | Contact Us How to Evaluate Your Parenting Skills: Parenting with Aplomb What parent can honestly say they haven't questioned how well they are parenting their teen? It doesn't matter if you are a worrywart or a Mr. Know-it-all. All good parents want to do the best for their children. This article will introduce a foolproof way of removing bias, prejudice, and bigotry to allow you to step back and view your relationship with your teen from the outside in. In addition, this Raising Teens blog will also present ways to realize your strengths and weaknesses fully. This will further empower you to encourage and humble yourself as a parent striving to give your teen the best you can. Relativity Rating What's this? Written By: Daniel Currie Published: December 18, 2023 All parents occasionally wonder how well they are doing in their parenting quest as they guide teenagers from tweens to young adults. On the one hand, some parents worry, frantically darting from thought to thought, in fear of failing in every aspect. They think they are perhaps the worst at parenting, doing virtually everything wrong. As thoughts race through their head, the parent relives every nervous flashback of their supposed parental blunder with what could have been riding parallel. "I shouldn't have punished them for that; they're only teens. They missed lunch; they always complained they were hungry. She seems to be an outsider looking in; how could I have not helped? He wore shorts in the middle of winter because his pants weren't washed, and he didn't have anything else." Every mishap. Every self-conscious parenting decision rides in agony on the parent's thoughts during their time of reflection. Please enjoy the Raising Teens Blog post: On the other hand, many parents sit and contemplate and ask, "Am I nailing it? Doing an awesome job overall? Such a good job that other parents wish they could be as good as me?" As they sit and ponder their own question, they begin reminiscing over all the great things they've done for their kids—even if their teens don't realize it yet. As the parent enters their state of daydreaming about how good of a mom or dad they have become, they start thinking about how their teen has all the necessities. A roof over their head, a warm bed, year-round clothing for all the seasons and weather, and food daily. With a goofy grin, they begin to realize all their accomplishments, thinking, "Yep, I gave them most of their wants too, like that cool Playstation that he had no idea he was going to get; boy, I don't think I ever seen him so shocked and surprised before. Not to mention, I made all the varsity games that he's involved in, supporting him. I think his friends and girlfriend even like me—oh, and to top it off, I made sure I engineered an epic moral compass and belief system for him to live by; the proof is in the pudding; just look, he is such a great kid." Clearly, these two different mindsets are both based on the parent's prejudice and their outlooks. How can you know for certain that you are doing the best job possible, meeting the parenting goals you set out for yourself regardless of how you feel you are doing? If only a magic meter could tell you how you are parenting, negating any bias (Perfect idea, right?) Suppose you're the parent constantly worrying and thinking you are failing. You could actually be doing a fantastic job. Obviously, there could be many reasons for this feeling. A primary reason for many parents in the United States is the fear of failure (Atychiphobia). In this scenario, a person typically looks for problems and issues before the good in the situation. Why? It's simple when you think about it: you can't fail when there is nothing good or positive to work or begin with. Keep Reading Below! CurlyStache's Daily Inspire & Smile Inspire Inspire Inspire Inspire True in every aspect, not just physics: Newton's 3rd law, which states: "For every action (force) in nature, there is an equal and opposite reaction." Smile Smile Smile Smile Follow us however you social for daily memes and dad jokes! Now, say you are a parent who feels confident in their parenting skills and that other parents should follow your lead. How can you be sure you are that remarkable parent since you identify as one of the best and have nobody to compare yourself to as the greatest? If you feel this could be you, I strongly urge you to check yourself. Numerous parents believe their way is the leading method when parenting but, in essence, have over-confident or narcissistic tendencies—in either case, this could put their view on how well they parent into question. How do you know if your parenting goals match your parenting actions without bringing any bias into it? Via a simple, funny-looking word that is not used nearly as much as its synonym cousins: Aplomb. When Googling it, aplomb means self-confidence or assurance, especially (when) in a demanding situation. I'm not saying you should be strutting your stuff, thinking you have all the self-confidence in the world when it comes to raising teens today. I am saying that given your current circumstances, whatever they may be, you should feel confident and content in your parenting. Key words are "current circumstances." It won't always be pretty, but as long as you can rest your head at night knowing you did your best. If you can do that, you should confidently say, "Given my circumstances, I'm parenting with aplomb!" Parenting with aplomb is only one half of the equation. The other half is your teen. How are they responding to your parenting? Without directly asking them, how are they doing? How are they feeling? Do they have problems that they shouldn't have and that you could remedy for them? It's crucial not to ask them outright because it could open up bias from your teen. Whatever your teen feels in the moment is most likely the response you will get, not necessarily how life is treating them overall—or it's possible they may not tell the whole truth. Instead, observe. Given their age and circumstances, does your teen appear happy and content (for a teen, anyway!)? The usual teenage problems, if any? When observing, it is essential to ensure they have an excellent support system and social life, but remember that friends and social lives can take many forms and mediums (see our other blog for more on this, including tips, cues, and connecting: How to Foster Positive Relations with Socially Awkward Teens ) If everything seems reasonable, asking questions to quash suspicions is okay. There is no need to let them know your intentions unless you choose to; you are just casually asking in passing to make you feel better and to be present and involved in their life. Once you are confident they aren't hiding anything that could be emotionally damning or otherwise hurtful to you or them, you can take a sigh of relief and proclaim my kid is doing the teen thing with aplomb. How did you do as a parent? I am willing to bet that many crushed it. When you remove the personal bias and self-doubting or over-confident factors, you will find that as long as you can be content with your parenting in whatever situation you find yourself in, you aced it with aplomb. Given your teen is living a healthy, happy life, with their typical growing pains and rites of passage, there is no need to question how good or bad of a parent you are. Have faith and confidence in yourself. There is no such thing as easy parenting. Furthermore, there is no "neat and orderly" version of parenting teens. It is often sloppy and messy, with wild twists and turns. Embrace it. That will bring character, wisdom, and a strong bond to your relationship with your teen. Lastly, those qualities will improve your parenting methods while bringing you and your teen closer together, enriching the quality of your relationship tremendously. In Conclusion, always remember, More CurlyStache Blog Posts! Memento Mori: Happy Halloween CurlyStache Mashups CurlyStache Mashups Written By: Daniel Currie Published on: Saturday, October 28, 2023 Read Now 👉 Episode: Daniel Currie Up Previous Next Up Memento Mori: Happy Halloween CurlyStache Full-Length Blogs CurlyStache Full-Length Blogs Written By: Daniel Currie Published on: Saturday, October 28, 2023 Read Now 👉 Up Previous Next Up Comments Let us know what you think, the floor is yours! ▲ Back to Top Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> You are Here: CurlyStache | How to Evaluate Your Parenting Skills: Parenting with Aplomb Privacy Policy | Cookies Policy | Contact Us CurlyStache Blogs: A division of CurlyStache, www.curlystache.com . | Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Copyright notice: All images on this page, including all pages within the https://www.curlystache.com domain, are fully licensed or created for the sole purpose of this website. For additional information, please contact us at admin@curlystache.com

As a teen, remember that feeling you had when you dated that one person? Enchanting and spellbinding. You swore you would be with them forever. You made sure everybody knew it with the way you talked, acted, and drooled over them. That is mawkish at its finest. This episode explores that and raising teens today. Start Here! Blogs More More Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Find us on Social! >>> You are Here: CurlyStache | Mashup: Mawkish Privacy Policy | Cookies Policy | About Us The Mashup: Short Raising Teens Blog Entries. Opinionated. Grounded in Facts. 006 - 11.11.23 Mawkish: Nauseating Affection "Your speech last weekend was awfully mawkish. I can't say I've ever seen that side of you. Feel free not to show it again." That is a perfect example of how to use that weird word. Kudos to you if you know what it means and how it ties into so many teens. I admit I've been guilty of mawkishness, like most teens who just hit puberty, ride the emotions train, and get blinded by passions. Mawkish is another way of saying so sappy that it is sickening, being excessively sentimental, like a fool in love. In cartoon terms, it's the Looney Tunes' Pepe Le Pew. For those who don't know him, go to YouTube and search for him. OK, so the mawkish tendencies of Pepe weren't as much the obsession over Penelope Pussycat as the mushy-gushy stuff when Pepe actually gets his arms around Penelope. So, let's think back: how many of you had that one boyfriend or girlfriend you fell madly in love with, adored, or worshiped in some sense, where nothing else mattered? Oh, and of course, nothing could split you apart? You know, feeling like Bonnie and Clyde when you were together. I'm willing to bet that you gushed about them to your friends and family. As you did this, your parents grinned, thinking in the back of their heads, "Yep, puppy love," your friends rolled their eyes, getting sick of hearing about it. Meanwhile, your sibling(s) were making gagging noises in disapproval. Those things that you said and did were mawkish to the fault. Next question: how many of you have seen this in your teens? If you haven't yet, you probably will, and it will be simultaneously cute, happy, and utterly annoying. Now, throw in being a good parent and trying to delicately reel them back down to earth from cloud 9 so they don't get as hurt in the end. That can become a tricky situation if not handled correctly. How should you handle this? Good question. I haven't figured that out yet, and I think nobody really has (if you have, let us know!). Regardless, whenever and however you go about it, their reaction will undoubtedly be, "[the person] and I will be together forever. Nothing will split us apart! Not even You!" Take solace in knowing you tried to rope them back to reality despite the assurance that it could never end. All you can do now is be there for them with guidance and advice when they request it. Refrain from force-feeding them any relationship advice or recommendations for relationship longevity. This is crucial. Remember, they already think they know everything and will be together forever. Suppose you attempt to intervene with an uninvited idea or suggestion. It will most likely be seen as a sabotaged recommendation thanks to their emotionally blind love—it goes without saying that it would not help your teen's morale, emotional growth, and the relationship between you and your teen. I know about this all too well. I have always been an emotional dude, always very passionate about my feelings, including (puppy) love. Unfortunately, back in grade school, a few knew about this and took advantage of it. Around January, right after Christmas, this cute girl began making herself known around me and kept flirting. After two weeks, one of her friends told me to ask her out because she really liked me (and I liked her!), so I did. I was the definition of mawkish. I held hands down the hallway, kissed every chance I could, talked on the phone with her after school until late at night, and practically ignored the world around me as she became my world, eventually telling her I loved her. February 14th came. Valentine's Day. I bought her a dozen roses, a giant teddy bear, balloons, and chocolates. Long story short, I was the sap, and a week later, she broke up with me. Looking back on it, it served me right, and it's kind of comical now, but damn, it hurt back then, even after I told my parents she was the one. I can only imagine what my parents were thinking. Thank god they didn't say, "I told you so!" The story's moral is to be a good parent and prepare your teen for the possible downfall if they seem to be falling head over heels for someone. If they don't listen, that is on them, a lesson hard learned but one they must learn on their own—and if they ask for advice and take what you give them, they are in even better shape! Regardless, kick back, relax, and enjoy the nauseating, oversentimental, sappy mawkishness. Until next time! Relativity Date Saturday, November 11, 2023 Share Blog Episode 006 - "Mawkish: Nauseating Affection" (Copy Again) Copy Link Help us spread the word! This is how we grow and flourish as a blog and website. From me to you and your friends. https://www.curlystache.com/mashup/mawkish What? So, what exactly is the Mashup? Precisely as it sounds: a blend of online writing styles in a format ranging from storytelling and structured to opinionated to factual, formal to casual, and personal to professional—all while ensuring we keep true to the CurlyStache mission of guiding teenagers and raising teens today in a volatile society. The Mashup is designed to be more opinionated, grounded in facts, less researched, and directed to spark ideas and discussions. When? During the weeks I cannot get a blog out, I will fill that void with a Mashup entry. Remember to follow us on Facebook @CurlyStache Blogs and through all your favorite social media outlets to get notified of the newest releases! And be sure to share it with friends and families that could benefit! Why? I enjoy writing and expressing my opinions on essential issues when raising teens today. There are times throughout the week when I cannot get to my computer as much as I would like—or cannot do my due diligence and research a blog to present it how I want it and still be backed by facts. This fills the void. Short articles containing whatever is on my mind grounded in current events relating to parenting and teen issues, writing in whatever style vibing at the time. ▲ Back to Top Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> You are Here: CurlyStache | Mashup: Mawkish Privacy Policy | Cookies Policy | Contact Us CurlyStache Blogs: A division of CurlyStache, www.curlystache.com . | Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Copyright notice: All images on this page, including all pages within the https://www.curlystache.com domain, are fully licensed or created for the sole purpose of this website. For additional information, please contact us at admin@curlystache.com

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Discover strategies to worry less and focus on what truly matters—family, friends, hobbies, and jobs. Embrace a life with less stress and more joy with mindfulness! Worry Less, Live More: How to Effectively Manage Your Worries GT Mashup Blog: Episode 013 Written By : Daniel Currie Published On : 3 /6 /2024 Relativity Rating: Growth Beyond 20 What's this? Life can sometimes feel like a tightrope walk over a pit of worry. We worry about our family, our job, the future, and everything in between. It's like our minds are on a never-ending spin cycle of "what ifs" and "should haves." But what if I told you there's a way to hop off that cycle? That's right, it's time to learn how to worry less and actually start living. Why We Worry: The Heart of the Matter Worrying is a natural human instinct—it's our brain's way of trying to protect us from potential threats. But when we let these worries spiral out of control, they do more harm than good. They gnaw at our peace of mind, leaving us stressed, anxious, and downright miserable. And for what? Half the stuff we worry about never even happens. It's high time we start focusing on what truly matters: living our lives to the fullest. How to Worry Less: Two Full-Proof Methods Worrying less isn't about ignoring the real issues we face. It's about managing our reaction to potential problems and focusing our energy on what we can control. Let's break it down. #1 ► Compartmentalize, Prioritize, and Realize Here's a golden nugget of advice: carve out 15 minutes of your day, preferably when you know you're most prone to worrying. Sit at a desk or a table—somewhere you can't get too cozy. You see, comfort can sometimes keep us trapped in worryland, a place where your body hits a state of lethargic comfortableness, making it hard to snap back to reality. Sitting somewhere solid, you'll feel more grounded and ready to tackle whatever is on your mind. During this worry session, let it all out. But here's the catch: do it with purpose. Start a journal and jot down every single worry crowding your brain. This isn't about letting your fears run wild; it's about giving them a place to exist outside of your head. Seeing your worries in black and white can provide a fresh perspective, helping you figure out which concerns are worth your time and which you can let go of. This type of exercise is a form of controlled exposure to your worries, allowing the worrywart within to have its moment, but under your terms. It's about acknowledging your anxieties, understanding them, and then crafting a plan to address what genuinely needs attention. You can think of it as a mindfulness exercise for healthy worrying. Why does this work? It's simple: when you compartmentalize your worries, you're setting boundaries. You're telling your brain, "This is the time we deal with this, and afterward, we focus on living." It's a powerful strategy to ensure that worry doesn't consume your day. Plus, the act of writing creates a sense of commitment to handling these worries productively rather than letting them simmer in the background. "The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another." – William James* #2 ► The 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: A Mindfulness Windfall When worry starts creeping up on you, especially in times when you can't wait for your 15 minutes of worrying, grounding yourself in the present can be incredibly powerful. That's where the 5-4-3-2-1 Technique shines. Sometimes known as the "5 Senses Technique," it's a simple yet effective mindfulness exercise that diverts your attention away from your worries and back to the here and now. First, acknowledge five things you can see around you. Next, focus on four things you can touch. Then, listen for three sounds you can hear. After that, identify two things you can smell. Finally, acknowledge one thing you can taste. This technique isn't just fluff—it's backed by the idea that by engaging all your senses, you're forcing your mind to leave behind its anxious thoughts and focus on the present. Real-Life Examples: Turning Theory into Practice Let's get real for a moment. Think about the last time you worried yourself sick over something that never happened. All that energy wasted, all for nothing. Now, remember a time when you faced a problem head-on, focusing only on what you could change. Felt better, right? These real-life examples show us the stark difference between letting worry control us and taking control of our worry. Wrapping It Up: Mindfulness to a Worry-Less Life The journey to worrying less is exactly that—a journey. It's not about becoming a Zen master overnight or pretending that problems don't exist. It's about learning to manage our worries in a way that doesn't derail our happiness or our lives. By adopting mindfulness strategies like compartmentalizing our worries and practicing mindfulness, we can find a healthier balance. So, the next time worry comes knocking, remember: you have the tools to deal with it. You're in control. Worry less, live more—it's not just a catchy saying. It's a mantra for a happier, more fulfilling life. Let's embrace it with open arms. Until Next Time... Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Help us spread the word! Share this article across all your favorite platforms now! *William James : a philosopher, historian, and psychologist and the first educator to offer a psychology course in the United States.

Discover the balance between guidance and freedom in college parenting. Learn how stepping back can foster resilience and independence in your teen. Ditching College Helicopter Parenting for Real Growth GT Mashup Blog: Episode 010 Written By : Daniel Currie Published On : 2 /15 /2024 Relativity Rating: Late Teens & Young Adults What's this? Listen up, folks! We're in deep—knee-deep in the quagmire of college helicopter parenting, and guess what? It's time to yank ourselves out. You've seen it, right? Facebook groups for parents swapping tips on the best flu remedies and where to find that godsend of a foam pool noodle. Because, heaven forbid, Junior's phone takes a dive into the great unknown between the bed and the wall. But here's the kicker: are we really helping, or are we just scared shitless to let them navigate their own lives? It's a tough pill to swallow, realizing that our overbearing parenting style might be clipping their wings instead of prepping them for the flight of life. Real Talk on Independence Remember the first time you rode a bike without training wheels? That exhilarating, terrifying freedom? That's what college should be for our kids. It's their moment to wobble, fall, and get the hell back up again—on their own. But with us constantly lurking in the background, ready to catch them before they even tilt, we're robbing them of this crucial learning curve. The Fine Line Between Guiding and Smothering Guiding teenagers doesn't mean holding their hand every step of the way. It's about being there, sure, but more like a lighthouse guiding a ship home—not the captain steering the damn thing. It's about saying, "I trust you to make your choices, screw up, and learn from them." Because let's be real, the best lessons in life come wrapped in scraped knees and bruised egos. Raising Resilient Teens: The Essential Parenting Dos 1) Let Them Fail. Yeah, you heard me. Allow them to mess up, flunk a test, or miss a deadline. It's not the end of the world; it's the beginning of learning resilience. 2) Teach Problem-Solving. Instead of swooping in to fix every problem, ask them, "How do you plan to tackle this?" It's about empowering them to find solutions. 3) Encourage Independence. This means stepping back. Maybe your kid ends up eating ramen for a week because they blew their budget. It's a lesson learned for next time. 4) Open Communication. Keep those lines open, but don't make every call a check-up call. Sometimes, just listen, laugh, and let them know you're there—no strings attached. The Value of Self-Sufficiency Fostering self-sufficiency isn't just about making our lives easier; it's about preparing them for the real world. When they come to us with a problem, our first response shouldn't be to fix it but to ask, "What do you think you should do?" This approach encourages critical thinking and confidence in their ability to solve problems. Embracing the Chaos (And Growth) of College Life College isn't just an academic journey; it's a crash course in life. By stepping back, we allow our kids the space to navigate roommate issues, budgeting, and the consequences of last-minute cramming. These experiences are invaluable, teaching them about the realities of life and the importance of accountability. Cutting the Cord (Gently) I get it; it's freaking scary. The thought of your kid out there, making decisions without your guidance, can send you into a panic spiral. But here's the thing: we're not raising kids; we're raising future adults. Adults who need to know how to navigate life's ups and downs without a safety net. So, let's take a collective deep breath and take a step back. It's time to trust the process, trust our kids, and maybe, just a little, trust ourselves that we've done a damn good job up until this point. Here's to empowering our teens towards a future they can navigate confidently—foam pool noodles be damned. Until Next Time... Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Help us spread the word! Share this article across all your favorite platforms now!

Learn how to set and maintain healthy boundaries with your family to enhance respect and strengthen relationships. Take control and feel empowered. Boundaries and Family: Navigating Close Relationships Confidently GT Bite-Size Blog: Episode 016 Written By : Daniel Currie Published On : 3 /28 /2024 Alright, let's break down this concept of "Boundaries and Family" so it's super clear and easy to grasp, even if you're just chilling after a long day of school or mellowing out after a long day in the office in front of your 70" finishing off March Madness. Relativity Rating: Everybody What's this? Understanding Boundaries: What's the Big Deal? Imagine boundaries like an invisible force field around you. They're all about making sure you're treated right and feel good in your family, whether that's with your mom, dad, brother, sister, kids—or anyone really. Angela Sitka is a well-known, prominent therapist in California who knows a thing or two in this field. She firmly states that boundaries are "like a promise you make to yourself to take care of your own needs while interacting in your relationships." You decide how you want to be treated, and if someone crosses the line, you're ready to stand up for yourself. Why You Gotta Have Them Boundaries aren't about being selfish; they're actually about taking care of your own vibe so you can enjoy time with your family without feeling all stressed out. They help everyone understand what's cool and what's not, making hanging out together way more fun and less of a drama fest. Setting Them Up Like a Pro Reflect First: Before you even chat with your family, take a minute to think about what makes you feel comfy and what doesn't. If thinking about certain family hangouts makes you sweat, that's a big hint you need some boundaries. Talk It Out: When you're ready, be clear and calm about what you need. Say something like, "Hey, when you make jokes about my hobbies, it can really burn me at times. I'd appreciate it if we could talk about something else." If Things Go South, Stay Cool: Sometimes, people might forget or ignore your boundaries, and that's tough. But remember, you can remind them gently or decide what to do next, like taking a break from the convo if it gets too intense. Looking After Number One Setting boundaries isn't just about dealing with other people; it's also about treating yourself right. It means not getting too caught up in how others react and remembering you're awesome, regardless of what they may say. It's a Two-Way Street Boundaries go both ways. If someone in your family sets their own boundaries, it's not just cool to appreciate; it's something admirable, respectable, and a really good show of character—like you and your set boundaries. It shows you care about each other's feelings and want the best for everyone. Keep It Going Remember, setting boundaries isn't a one-and-done deal. It's more like leveling up in a video game—or getting that much closer in your March Madness Bracket. You get better over time, and sometimes you need to adjust your strategy. It might feel like a lot at first, but it gets easier, and it's totally worth it for the peace of mind and better family vibes. Conclusion Setting boundaries with your family doesn't have to be a battlefield. It's about understanding and respect, making sure everyone's cool with how they're treated. Stick with it, and you'll see how it makes family time a whole lot better. Keep being awesome, and remember, your feelings are always valid! Until Next Time... Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Help us spread the word! Share this article across all your favorite platforms now!

With today's generation of teens. Is parenting gone wrong or just misunderstood? You be the judge. Learn the whole story. Staying true to the CurlyStache mission, only opinionated and grounded in facts. Start Here! Blogs More More Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Find us on Social! >>> The Mashup: Short Raising Teens Blog Entries. Opinionated. Grounded in Facts. 003 - 10.20.23 Mollycoddle: The Epidemic Controversial, you may agree or disagree, but authentic and true to form, the Mashup motto goes: "Opinionated. Grounded in Facts." Still, a real problem exists with children, teens, and even young adults and parents mollycoddling them. A handful of you may ask, "What the hell is 'mollycoddling'?" I don't blame you. I was one to Google it, too, when I first heard the word. When Googling it, you will find the definition of (to) "treat (someone) in an indulgent or overprotective way." A handful of similar words include: coddle, spoil, overindulge, and pamper. This should give you a good feel for what I'm talking about. Anyway, is it safe to say you know of at least a few children or teens like that, expecting tasks to be done for them, particularly the more difficult and demanding ones? Even emotional mollycoddling within reason, where their feelings could be challenged if it doesn't bring instant gratification? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but parents are responsible. Not the child or teen. You cannot blame anyone else besides the parent or guardian. They are the enablers. And yes, sometimes they don't even realize they are doing it- that's for a different discussion. After the turn of the century in the United States, there has been a significant uptick in this behavior among children and teens. As parents, we must remember there is a fine line between wanting what's best for our teens and pampering, spoiling, or indulging. Understand that you are not doing them any favors by doing the hard things, physically or emotionally; it will only make it more challenging for them as they become more independent and are out on their own. It makes it hard for your soon-to-be young adult teen to process challenging, problematic scenarios. Their knee-jerk reaction is to want Mom and Dad to come and fix it because that is what they are familiar with, how they were raised, and what makes them the most comfortable. Suppose a parent goes overboard, mollycoddles, and overindulges them, saying the hell with it. Whether it's for selfish reasons like their kid is getting on their nerves or throwing a temper tantrum and just needs them to chill out a bit—or alternatively, the parent wants to do it as a form of setting them up for success because they can get it done quicker, ensuring their kid has the quickest and simplest path to success . In that case, they are doing them absolutely no favors except setting them up for failure. Not to get it twisted, parents should always be there to HELP their children and teens in whatever capacity they require to grow and develop, but mollycoddling is not helping. Simply ensuring we are being there for our children and teens and supporting them in their needs is quintessential parenting. The critical difference between being a great parent, being there, and supporting teens, compared to a parent who feels the need to mollycoddle, is knowing when to back off. Ask yourself: Can my child figure out how to do this themselves now that I've shown and helped them? -or- They are down on their luck, and time will heal all things with a bit of wisdom; am I preventing them from moving on by dwelling on it with them and trying to fix it, or am I fostering positivity and encouraging them to look to the future and the potential to come? Parents must maintain vigilance, pushing and guiding teenagers towards independence while teaching positive, responsible choices for when the time comes—and mom and dad aren't there to help. When the training wheels are taken off, becoming young adults, those young adults must be ready—or face failure as a parent. Remember, when children and teens are mollycoddled, it becomes clear and evident as they grow older. Their maturity level will appear stunted because their parents have taken the bulk of the harder, more responsible choices off their shoulders throughout the years. Whether it is mental or physical, there is no need to ever mollycoddle. It will only hinder your child's growth as they age, become a teenager, and as they continue becoming young adults. Being a parent is not easy; it's all about bending without breaking and knowing when too much of a good thing is too much. It is a subtle art where you will never reach perfection, but I promise if you keep striving, that will be more than enough, and you can sleep easy knowing you are doing it right! Date Until next time! Friday, October 20, 2023 Share Blog (Copy Again) Copy Link https://www.curlystache.com/mashup/mollycoddle Episode 003 - "Mollycoddle: The Epidemic" What? So, what exactly is the Mashup? Precisely as it sounds: a blend of online writing styles in a format ranging from storytelling and structured to opinionated to factual, formal to casual, and personal to professional—all while ensuring we keep true to the CurlyStache mission of guiding teenagers and raising teens today in a volatile society. The Mashup is designed to be more opinionated, grounded in facts, less researched, and directed to spark ideas and discussions. When? During the weeks I cannot get a blog out, I will fill that void with a Mashup entry. Remember to follow us on Facebook @CurlyStache Blogs and through all your favorite social media outlets to get notified of the newest releases! And be sure to share it with friends and families that could benefit! Why? I enjoy writing and expressing my opinions on essential issues when raising teens today. There are times throughout the week when I cannot get to my computer as much as I would like—or cannot do my due diligence and research a blog to present it how I want it and still be backed by facts. This fills the void. Short articles containing whatever is on my mind grounded in current events relating to parenting and teen issues, writing in whatever style vibing at the time. ▲ Back to Top Start Here! Blogs More More Find us on Social! >>> CurlyStache Blogs: A division of CurlyStache, www.curlystache.com . | Raising Teens Today: Guiding Teenagers with Essential Parenting Dos and Don'ts Copyright notice: All images on this page, including all pages within the https://www.curlystache.com domain, are fully licensed or created for the sole purpose of this website. For additional information, please contact us at admin@curlystache.com