Growing up and growing away...

Let's talk about separation anxiety - not just for our kids, but for us parents, too! Every level of development brings with it a new level of separation. Birth: we cut the umbilical cord and literally separate our bodies from one another; weaning: we separate from the closeness of nursing and have to find other ways to be close and to feel connected with our babies; preschool/day care: our little ...ones begin to have a life separate from us and we no longer know everything they have seen or heard; grade school/middle school/high school: all bring with them new and greater levels of separation; college: our kids often move out and begin to make a life for themselves outside of our homes. These are all healthy and happy separations, but there is a level of grief that comes with each stage for parents.

My youngest daughter got her drivers' license last week. She is a very independent spirit and I have hardly seen her in the past week. After spending lots of time together, she doesn't need me anymore for transportation or driving practice. She is also my youngest child and I have been experiencing a deep sadness that goes with this latest developmental stage. I'm happy for her and she's ready for this...I'm not so sure I was. I'm keeping the perspective that all is well and I know that each separation is healthy to prepare my kids to make independent lives - which I DO want for them! It's ok if I shed a tear, too!

Please share your thoughts and personal stories, so I know I'm not alone!

Wishing you balance,

Bette Levy Alkazian, LMFT
www.BalancedParenting.com


from MOMIPEDIA post on Facebook 5/25/16