So, what everyone warned me would happen has finally happened! My DS (12) has changed from being really close and affectionate to me, to a typical preteen/teen who wants a lot of distance from this mama! I do realise this is a totally normal stage, so I guess I'm just seeking some empathy (plus reassurance that some of the closeness will come back) from you guys who have been through/are going through this. I'm doing my best to give him his space and more independence, while still reminding him to be respectful when he is snappy and rude towards me (as he often is now).
Sometimes (privately of course) I get so emotional about this, eg thinking of little things like how the past times of him holding my hand, rushing to hug me etc are gone. 😪 Am I a totally soppy sap, or have many of you also felt this way?
Also, I'm finding it hard that he is really favouring his dad at the moment, quite blatantly. It's kind of galling, as he is still really affectionate with his dad, and I feel I'm the one who has been more involved in the parenting over the years. I'm trying to let that go, and accept that it's normal that he is looking more to a male role model at the mo... also I feel that it's easier for DS to reject me as my love probably comes across to him as more unconditional, whereas I think DS has often felt he has to 'win' his dad's approval. I mean it might not all be cos of that - I do realise it could also be that he's finding me more annoying than his dad, as I'm not so 'cool' and laidback!
Any commiserations and advice welcome!
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Preteens
Feeling sad about losing the cuteness
mumuseli · 30/01/2024 11:24
TheFormidableMrsC · 22/04/2024 17:46
I'm going through this too. My son just turned 13 and had a massive personality transplant overnight. I've been through this before with my daughter and I know it passes but she's left home now and it's just the two of us and I feel really sad at how disconnected he is (unless he wants something!). Also the moods! Good GOD. It is all complicated with SEN. Fun times! I think we just have to hang in there!
CadyEastman · 22/04/2024 17:51
Have you shown them the sketch where Kevin turns 13 and literally changes before his parents eyes? Mine laughed rather sheepishly at that one
TheFormidableMrsC · 22/04/2024 17:46
I'm going through this too. My son just turned 13 and had a massive personality transplant overnight. I've been through this before with my daughter and I know it passes but she's left home now and it's just the two of us and I feel really sad at how disconnected he is (unless he wants something!). Also the moods! Good GOD. It is all complicated with SEN. Fun times! I think we just have to hang in there!
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