The Reminder Every Parent, Caregiver, Grandparent Needs: You Matter

Summer months bring long days. Days in which our children aren’t always appreciative of our ideas or our presence, especially as they get older. Preteens and teens may resent suggestions for activities or prodding about their relationships. “Spend less time on your devices and more time outside” may be met with eye rolls or slammed doors or flat out ignoring. “Let’s do something together” may be met with a look of disdain.

Winter months bring long evenings, which often makes it more difficult to keep children, especially teens, engaged in anything but social media.

In all seasons, we often feel unappreciated, invisible, unnoticed. Other times we feel depleted as we juggle household chores, work responsibilities, and raising children. This state of mind may be worse during when our children’s structured days have been upset, such as summer or Christmas breaks.

Even though your child may not express it, you are making a difference.

You always matter, but especially during the long difficult days, you matter. On your worst day, you matter. On the day your daughter disrespects you, you matter. On the day your son ignores you, you matter. And on the day you learn your teen fell prey to peer pressure or an online danger, propelling them down a wrong path, you matter.

Your Presence Matters

Teens may hide in their bedrooms or shut us out. They may choose to disregard our teaching. Despite these signals and their desire to break free from us, they need to know we are physically present. Be available. Listen intently. Pay attention. If a child treats you unkindly, politely redirect. When your feet want to flee, stay close. You are the most important influence in your child’s life.

Your Attitude Matters

Our children are watching. Our mannerisms, facial expressions, and attitude are contagious. (See our July newsletter) Our approach to life influences those around us. Have meltdowns privately and remain calm in front of your children. Their behavior is not personal. They are finding themselves and need a safe place to both succeed and fail.

Your Love Matters

When their friend backstabs, their bestie moves, or their romantic relationship crumbles, our love continues. Show them love. Teach them love. Sitting quietly with them while they process, reminds them you care. A well-placed hug or smile reminds them that they matter.

Your Existence Matters

Mom, Dad, Grandparent, Caregiver, Leader, Educator: You are special and unique. You are the only you that exists. You play an important role in your child’s life. You have a purpose. When no one else sees you or pays attention to your thoughts, you still matter.

Keep trying. Keep loving your child. Keep talking. You’ve got this!

We can’t do it alone!

Help us make sure that our youth are properly equipped to make healthy choices NOW so that they can go on to lead happy, successful lives later. Let’s change the face of the community today!

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