Changing is all part of growing up, and while some changes like growing taller and losing baby fat are welcomed with open arms, other changes feel like they come out of nowhere and which they wish had stayed where they were.
However, it’s vital to help your kids understand that change isn’t a bad thing, and even if it’s not ideal, it’s still best to embrace it rather than sulk and wish things were still the same. An attitude that rejects change is no way to live, so while it might take some time, accepting change as a part of life that you often can’t help will help them face it better in the future.
Physical
The first type of change your kids will notice about themselves and others is physical changes. This can be as innocent as changing a haircut, or it can be something like the onset of puberty. Whatever it is, it’s essential to talk to your kid maturely about whatever physical changes they are noticing or concerned with and give them a safe space to discuss with you.
It might not always be them and their peers, though. There’s a chance they could notice a change in older family members such as weaker bones or hearing loss. It’s important to learn more about the best way to communicate with things such as this, as it will ensure your child discusses things respectfully.
Mental
Moody and rebellious teenagers are a cliche at this point, but they are so for a reason. There will be times as your child grows up that they argue, struggle, and ignore your advice, and it’s easy to think you should leave them to it. However, even if they think they know it all, they are hugely mistaken, and it’s your guidance that will keep them on track during their years of finding themselves.
Later on, they will realize they weren’t the greatest growing up and will turn to you for help and advice over the worries they have for the future. With your wealth of experience, you can help guide them again and steer them in the right direction, at least this time they’ll be thankful straight away.
External
It’s not always what goes on in their head or with their body, and they’ll experience some sort of change in their environment as they go through life. Whether it’s heading off to university, moving house, or even out of the country, they can’t do it all alone.
This is where your vast knowledge comes in. Most of you have likely experienced such a change in your life already, so you know how to help them cope with homesickness and other problems they encounter after a sudden shift in their environment. From careers to houses, they can’t do it all alone, so help them out when they ask you, but try not to impose too much.
Going Through Changes
No matter who you are or what you do, a change is going to come at some point in your life, and you should teach your kids this as early as you can. Preparing them for what is inevitable means they’ll cope with it much better when the time arrives.
