I’ve been losing my cool lately, and it’s all because of a 7-year old. THIS is the monster that’s been pushing my buttons, making me scream and driving me to drink.
I know. A complete terror, isn’t he?
Sigh. It’s so easy to have perspective when I’m not in the moment. But as Ryder gains independence, he has also become inquisitive, defiant and often, aggressive and uncooperative. It’s all part of growing up, I know, and he’s no different than any other 7-year old I see. Yet it’s very difficult to think with a level head and keep my cool, especially when he asks “why?” for the hundredth time or says “I don’t want to” just as often.
Why don’t kids come with a manual? Better yet, why don’t they have a “pause” button?
Parenting. The hardest (and most rewarding) job in the world. Tell me it gets easier, friends.