Stop bugging me! Is probably a popular phrase that is being said in your home.
So many questions all. The. Time. Where are you going? Who are you snap-chatting with? We could go on and on and I’m sure you are quite familiar with it all. I see your eyes rolling right now.
The thing is, there is a way of looking at this situation and a way to handle it too. Your parents/guardians love you and are making sure that you’re safe. If they’re asking too many questions, it’s just because they are just really concerned for your safety.
Before you say stop bugging me, consider some options.
Here’s an idea to help with the bugging: you can beat them to the punch and offer them some information! For example, at the dinner table, why don’t you ask them how their day was from work and then tell them about your day? Tell them how a project is going and how you are planning to reach out to your classmate to go over stuff for an upcoming quiz. The more you share, the less they will bug. We know this from experience.
Another great idea is to do an activity together that you and either of your parents – or both – enjoy doing. Go out for coffee, try that new burger place, take a walk or play a round of tennis or golf.
Just yesterday I was busy around my kitchen, doing “Sunday Things.” Food shopping, meal prep and answering long-awaited emails and texts. I thought to myself, that I needed a break before I retired for the day. And I also needed to sweat.
I texted my daughter who was out doing some volunteer service. (God bless the Ontario government that requires teens to volunteer a certain amount of hours in order to graduate!) I asked her if she wanted to join me in a yoga class at @oxygenyogamidtown and she replied “Ya.”
So off we went with our yoga mats, water bottles and towels in hand (Very much needed for hot yoga – love the infrared heat!) We got into the car, which I so appreciate for its effectiveness to get from point A to B, but I also appreciate the free, non-judgemental space for my kids to share what’s on their mind. I don’t even have to prompt, it just magically happens.
It is there, in the car where I listen and she talks, or she listens and I talk and sometimes we don’t even talk. There are times when an issue is solved and there are times when it turns into an argument. The beauty of spending time together, wherever it may be, is that we are communicating, which is the most important act in a relationship.
I’m so grateful to be able to have the opportunity to write what I’m passionate about and what I think will serve others. If you would like me to write about you and your passions for the Braves The Waves Journal, or for your own company, please be in touch.
