I’m the parent of a teen, which I’m often talking to myself as I try to understand the behavior of an adolescent with a still-developing prefrontal cortex. I’ve found that there are a few phrases that come to mind most on a daily basis. In no particular order, here are 21 things I often think to myself as the parent of a teen.
Didn’t see that one coming.
What do you mean you looked? It’s right there!
This, too, shall pass.
Do other parents of teens know what they’re doing?
What’s that smell?
I don’t want to know.
But . . . why?
I know it’s ridiculously unhealthy to even think this, but I’d like to wrap you in bubble wrap.
Bite your tongue, bite your tongue, bite your tongue!
I’m so curious to see how this turns out.
Wasn’t it just yesterday that you were little?
What in the world were you thinking? Never mind, you clearly weren’t thinking.
I’m not going to miss this.
I’m really going to miss this.
You did what?
Where’d my charger go?
Wow! (in the “you’re really impressive” way)
Wow! (in the “I didn’t think you were at that stage of life yet, but here we are” way)
Wow! (in the “I had no idea anyone could be so clueless” way)
Wow! (in the “I had no idea that time could fly by so incredibly quickly” way)
I wish you had even an inkling of just how much I love you.
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Prior Post: Roundup of expert advice on common teen parenting topics
