The teen brain – I’m trying
The teen brain – I’m trying
I came across this email I sent to Cindy, 11 years ago, when we were in the throes of parenting three teenagers. It was tough but I was trying.
I wrote: “I continue to TRY and remind myself of these truths. During his (Zach’s) condescending rants, I still struggle to keep blood from leaving my prefrontal for my limbic. You must admit, I’m TONS better than I was when Jordan was going through this developmental period.”
She said: “Wow, this is really good stuff. And this is really our three kids at one stage or another. Yes…you are doing better at not having blood spew from your eyes and fire leap from your ears and demons come forth from your fingertips and devour Zach. I appreciate that. I’m sure Zach does too. maybe a nice text to him will reinforce his perception of your love towards him during his “work in progress stage.” Good stuff, thanks!”
Here’s a summary of the Live Science article I was referencing. Thought you might like it too.
Navigating the Teenage Brain: A Not-So-Serious Guide for Seriously Baffled Parents
A Summary of Why They Make Us Crazy
Teens. One minute they’re taking their first steps, the next they’re slamming doors and taking 40-minute showers. What gives? Fear not! Here’s the scoop on the great adolescent enigma:
Brain Boosters Engaged! Their brains are evolving, giving them adult-ish thinking power. “Why did I dye my hair neon green?” It’s not rebellion; it’s… brain growth. And fashion.
Riding the Hormonal Rollercoaster. Ah, teen emotions: higher peaks than a soap opera and deeper drops than the stock market. Remember, they’re not overreacting – they’re just on a neurological thrill ride.
Peers, Cheers, and Occasional Jeers. Teens live in a world where “everyone saw it!” means three friends and a bored cat. But that’s okay! Every eye-roll and whispered secret is just social skills boot camp.
Risk? What’s That? Why walk when you can sprint? Teens are thrill-seekers by design. You might see a dangerous jump, they see a “cool story for tomorrow.”
Everyone’s Watching (Or Are They?). To a teen, a pimple can feel like a spotlight. They’re not self-centered – they just think they’re in a perpetual episode of “Everyone’s Got Talent!”
Attention All Parents:
Your teen is an unfolding mystery, wrapped in enigma, smothered in taco sauce. But fret not! Your job? Play detective, offer them your best “I’ve been there” smile, and occasionally remind them to use deodorant.
Laugh with them, hold them when they cry, and maybe – just maybe – get them to explain TikTok to you. Because while the teen brain might be a puzzle, it’s one hilarious ride we’re on together. Cheers to the chaos!
-Coach Darin