Last Updated on May 3, 2024 by The Smetz Files
When to push them and when to pull back; it’s a balancing act for parents.
I’ve been grappling with this notion of push and pull recently, especially when it comes to parenting. S has battled recurring strep throat the last several weeks that has kept her out of school, out of practice, and sequestered during fun family events. It’s not been easy discerning if she’s truly better or missing out and willing herself to pretend she’s better.
Finding Balance
It’s miserable to see your kid sick, but it’s also a mental dance to determine when they’re well and ready to resume normal activities. That’s the quagmire I’ve been living in the last six weeks. I am grateful both our kids are healthy and active, but we’ve really had to think through when to push them and when to pull back.
Commitment
Our family doesn’t take commitment lightly. When we commit, we are all in. Jay and I endeavor to give the kids every opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents, which often has us running all over the place and dividing and conquering when it comes to managing their schedules.
These are sacrifices we knowingly make and are part of our evaluation when we consider new commitments. All of this is compounded when illness throws a wrench in our plans, and of course, having family nearby to help make all this happen is a necessity for us.
Listen & Trust
Push and pull, it’s been heavy on my mind recently. I’ve come to understand I have to listen to the kids and trust my instinct. Sometimes that’s easier said than done.
As I move into this second decade of parenting (how is THAT possible, I still feel like a new mom?!) I find myself having thoughtful conversations with them, involving them in the process of decision-making as much as is reasonable, and honestly admitting when I mess up.
How do you navigate those instances of knowing when to push or when to pull back?
