Hormones, we all have them, we all know of them and we all know someone that has been affected negatively by them. These special chemicals are all part of what makes our bodies grow up and let me tell you they've definitely started to make an appearance in my eldest two children and the problem with hormones, one word, attitude!
Those pesky hormones start to make an appearance at the start of puberty, telling the body that it is time for a change, time to begin the transition from child into adult and the trouble comes when they make us act in a way that isn't part of our normal behaviour, the question is how to deal with these periods of shall we say madness?
As a parent I'm terrified as I know what I was like as a child growing up. Things seem to be happening earlier for my 8 year old, already experiencing greasy hair, seeming to get growing pains and sweating more, lucky for her (not for me), her 10 year old sister is going through it at the same time as her.
Now most of the symptoms I can deal with, it's the emotional side of things that has me stumped. My 8 year old is pure attitude, disagreeing with everything I have to say and giving me "the look", then there's my 10 year old, she's always been the quieter one but anything that annoys her, gets her angry, anything and I find her crying.
Those pesky hormones start to make an appearance at the start of puberty, telling the body that it is time for a change, time to begin the transition from child into adult and the trouble comes when they make us act in a way that isn't part of our normal behaviour, the question is how to deal with these periods of shall we say madness?
As a parent I'm terrified as I know what I was like as a child growing up. Things seem to be happening earlier for my 8 year old, already experiencing greasy hair, seeming to get growing pains and sweating more, lucky for her (not for me), her 10 year old sister is going through it at the same time as her.
Now most of the symptoms I can deal with, it's the emotional side of things that has me stumped. My 8 year old is pure attitude, disagreeing with everything I have to say and giving me "the look", then there's my 10 year old, she's always been the quieter one but anything that annoys her, gets her angry, anything and I find her crying.
I find myself constantly at my wits end wondering just how to make things better for both of them, my mum meanwhile sits and laughs telling me that this is pay back for how I was when I was younger, except I'm getting it back twofold.
What I really want is for my children to feel able to talk to me about how they are feeling, at least then I can try to offer some words of advice but at the moment the only responses I receive are, "I'm fine", "nothing's wrong". This is a part of parenthood that I'm not enjoying as all I want is to help yet I'm left feeling just as lost as they must feel.
I've tried to prepare them, talking to them about the ever so joyous periods that are to come and I'm very open about my body, they are well aware that they will get breasts and will get to wear what my youngest calls boobie bras.
I've tried to prepare them, talking to them about the ever so joyous periods that are to come and I'm very open about my body, they are well aware that they will get breasts and will get to wear what my youngest calls boobie bras.
The problem with hormones is that they are so utterly unpredictable, and if these early stages are anything to go by then the teenage years are going to be shall we say interesting. And I suppose it really doesn't matter that I have been through adolescence myself, I'm trying to remember that we all have to make our own mistakes, even if my kids mistakes may make me crazy in the process.
I can see me drinking more wine/gin in the coming years, either that or I'll be sending them up to my mums house, sharing is caring after all!
So for those of you who are currently going through this or who have been through this in the past do you have any words of wisdom for this exasperated mother?
I am dreading it so much too. I don't have any words of wisdom for you except wine. Lots and lots of wine and I'll be doing the exact same too x
ReplyDeleteWe, hopefully, have a couple of years before it starts to affect my daughter. Hopefully I will remember what it was like myself and be patient with her. Hormones are pretty horrible to be honest! No one likes them! #PoCoLo
ReplyDeleteMy 10 year old daughter is the same along with my nearly 9 year old son (who seems to have adopted the attitude of an 18 year old atm). My daughter storms off, slams doors, screams & shouts then bursts into tears (all this because her 3 year old sister went into her room). The teenage years are going to be a delight. I struggle with my hormones each month(thank you PMT) so, adding More hormones into the mix is hell at times. I much prefer the baby stage lol.
ReplyDeleteNo words of wisdom here... was hoping you'd have some! I'm with you - hoping our girl will open up and talk and not just grunt. Wishful thinking maybe!
ReplyDeleteOh dear, it does make you wonder if we were exactly the same doesn't it? And love the sharing is caring approach - good luck. Thanks for sharing with #PoCoLo x
ReplyDeleteOh Hun I hear ya! BP is 12 and has hormones raging through his body and drives me crazy with his attitude sometimes. All we can do is try and help the best we can but really they need to go through it by themselves. i totally know what you mean though Hun, think I might join you for that drink... ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking to #pocolo
Finding ways to appreciate quality and reliability has become increasingly important to us, especially when it comes to services we trust around our home and community. In that sense, discovering Bibbs Cleaning Services has been a genuinely positive experience. Their professional approach and strong attention to detail immediately stood out, showing a level of care that is often hard to find today.
ReplyDeleteAs a trusted pressure washing company , Bibbs Cleaning Services demonstrates how expertise and thoughtful execution can make a real difference. Just as learning becomes more engaging when it’s presented in the right way, property maintenance becomes far less stressful when handled by skilled professionals. Their pressure washing services are thorough, effective, and clearly designed with long-term results in mind. Surfaces are cleaned carefully, not rushed, and the end results noticeably enhance the overall appearance of the property.
What makes Bibbs Cleaning Services especially impressive is their consistency and professionalism. Communication is clear, scheduling is reliable, and the team approaches every task with respect and responsibility. It’s evident that they take pride in their work and value customer satisfaction above all else. This level of dedication builds confidence and trust, which is essential when choosing a service provider.
Overall, Bibbs Cleaning Services has proven to be a dependable and high-quality pressure washing company. Their commitment to excellence and customer care makes them a standout choice for anyone looking to maintain and improve their property in a professional and stress-free way.
Reading your post brought back so many memories the emotional rollercoaster of puberty really does start earlier than most of us expect, and it can leave parents feeling completely overwhelmed. You’re doing an amazing job just by being open, honest, and willing to talk about the awkward stuff. That safe space you’re creating will matter more than you realize, even if right now all you hear is “I’m fine.” Sometimes kids process big hormonal changes quietly before they’re ready to open up.
ReplyDeleteThe mood swings, tears, and attitude shifts are tough, but they’re also signs that your girls are learning how to handle big emotions for the first time. Staying calm (even when it’s hard), picking your battles, and having small one-on-one moments with each child can really help them feel secure. Humor helps too sometimes laughing together breaks the tension better than any serious talk.
At Black Wood Pest Solutions, we often remind families that just like with indian meal moth Pest Control , early awareness and gentle, consistent action make a huge difference. You can’t stop change from happening, but you can manage the environment so everyone feels safer and more supported.
You’re not alone in this stage of parenting and one day, believe it or not, you’ll all laugh about it together.