My son is 16 and embarking on his next chapter to figure out how to navigate the college application process. So far it's all about achievements rather than character, and purpose is measured in empirical terms. I think purpose is about lifelong learning and curiosity, not about … [Read more...] about Nurture Purpose in Teens
parenting
Showing Compassion is a Teen Milestone
I admittedly didn’t think of exhibiting compassion as a milestone during the teen years, but when I saw it in my son, it was a staggering revelation. It was during recent events around our national racial reckoning that I saw true compassion unveiled in my teenage son. We had … [Read more...] about Showing Compassion is a Teen Milestone
Missing My (Not So) Little Boy
Fresh air is fuel. I took a walk around the park in my neighborhood the other day to feel the invigorating breeze of early autumn and to clear my head. My son has been away at school 800 miles away for about two months now. Parents' weekend came and went. We already had plans to … [Read more...] about Missing My (Not So) Little Boy
Dear Deal on Your 16th Birthday
Dear Deal, I write this on a cloudy day as I remember the morning you were born 16 years ago, sunny side up. You always hate when I say that. You’re a teenage boy, and I’m a 50-something mom, so you pretty much hate everything I say. But that doesn’t stop me from saying stuff … [Read more...] about Dear Deal on Your 16th Birthday
From Helicopter Parent to Lighthouse Parent
Healthy family relationships, like a healthy diet, are everything. Being a teenager is hard. Parenting a teenager is hard. The closest thing we have to a handbook is the Center for Parent and Teen Communication. Where was this when my dad and I were butting heads in the 80s? I am … [Read more...] about From Helicopter Parent to Lighthouse Parent
Looks Like We Made It
I've seen Barry Manilow in concert three times and I'm not ashamed to admit it. His songs are the tunes of my youth that take me back to when my parents had parties in our wood paneled basement with the pleather recliner and vinyl topped bar. The kids played outside, having been … [Read more...] about Looks Like We Made It
The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing
Children, their parents, and educators deserve applause for surviving this pandemic year. Thriving is a privilege if you ask me. Hell, nothing about me is thriving right now, and I live a charmed life. These are tough times, and the standard measuring stick to gauge progress just … [Read more...] about The Only Testing We Should Be Doing is Covid Testing