Toddlers vs Teenagers

THE TEENAGER YEARS BEGIN IN THE SANDBOX

On my journey as a parent, I've thought many times how a toddler and teenager aren't all that different. One is bigger than the other. The big ones need deodorant and acne meds, but inside they are very similar.

Here are some of my observations:
Toddlers vs Teenagers Toddlers act out when there are hungry, dirty or tired… Teenagers too.
Toddlers want to spread their wings and be in charge of some of their decisions without the necessary intelligence to do so… Teenagers too.
Toddlers like to dress themselves, but their sense of fashion is limited by their lack of knowledge of the world around them… Teenagers too.
Toddlers moods can still be diverted by something interesting and creative offered to them as an option by an intelligent adult...Teenagers too.
Toddlers can balk at the boundaries given to them intended for their own good… Teenagers too.
Toddlers are taking in a huge amount of information and processing it to the best of their ability... Teenagers too.
Toddlers can get frustrated at adults because of their immature language skills for a certain situation that perplexes them… Teenagers too.
Toddlers need naps. Their bodies and minds are growing at a rapid rate… Teenagers (and their parents😊)too.
Toddlers confidence level in what they think they can accomplish is many times out of proportion to their physical, emotional or mental abilities… Teenagers too.
Toddlers need a lot of Grace, your eye contact, hugs, kisses, playtime, praise, & cookies… Teenagers too.

A wise person challenged me to "get behind the eyes of your child". That is such good advice. The years playing in the sandbox or playing catch is where that starts. You learn so much seeing their antics, attitudes, and artistic bent as they play. Some are real thinkers. Some are engineers. Others are gentle and kind & then there's the energizer bunny. Sandbox interactions and/or melt downs are a keyhole we're given to view their world and their hearts. It's also the time you earn the right to be heard by your upcoming teenager.
Neither one of these creations are adults. Both are awkward, loud, obstinate, stinky, and amazingly clever. To love them in the realm of their reality gives them confidence and a taste of Grace. That Grace will guide them as they grow and mature. God's Grace always loves unconditionally without comparison or shame. It transmits a calm to be who you are and know your specialities are God given. Like Psalms 139 tells us, "you are fearfully and wonderfully made"! A soul that knows it's worth in the eyes of the Almighty is unstoppable to change their world for good.

YES-you will survive both of these ages & stages! They will be some of your sweetest memories. Hang in there...this too shall pass...all too soon!
Enjoy...and laugh! These creatures are funny things!!

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