The toughest job in the world is that of being a mother. Raising children is tough. I think most moms would agree that they would take a toddler again over parenting a teenager. Raising teens is not easy and while many of those years are spent watching our children thrive, other times we are just trying to survive. Who is with me here?
Summer breaks mean longer days and while farmers love the endless sunlight to help with the endless workload, mothers might not share the same love. Summer means kids are home, and while that often means they can help more with the workload; it becomes a lot for parents at times. Sometimes when we are in the middle of preparing for a county fair or baling straw is when the bellyaching occurs.
The good news, or at least from my perspective, is that the older the teen gets the better the teen becomes. They learn the hard lessons that shape farmers to be the heartbeat of Australia, learning traits like commitment, working together and sacrifice.
Not long ago, I jotted down some survival tips when I found myself arguing with one of my teenagers. Let me assure you all, that I truly believe there is no better place to raise kids than on a farm. This especially holds true for teenagers who are finding their way and their purpose. There is always a job to do, and the landscape a farm provides is needed for a teen to figure out their purpose in life.
### Fuel them up
Teenagers are growing at a rapid speed, so you must feed them. A LOT! I know this is a painful task, with groceries being so expensive, but my tip is to feed them some kind of protein before you talk to them. Feed your teens.
### Establish boundaries
Those boundaries can be loosened the older and more mature they get. For example, my youngest son (age 13) has a rule that the phone is put up by 9 p.m. We let the kids know that phones are a privilege and when they are disrespectful, they lose privileges, like phones.
### Establish expectations
This often means chores and what they are required to do around the farm, but also in the home. Sometimes when kids are having a tough time staying on task, I will write out what all needs to be done and then they can have time to hang out with friends, watch television or go fishing.
### Step away
I began stepping away more. When it’s just the kids in the barn, they talk to each other — about school, about friends, about cows and farm life, and their problems. I think it’s healthy for open dialogue among siblings, and it is also healthy for kids to become their own problem solvers.
### Fresh air
It cures just about anything. When kids have an attitude, scoot them outside.
Give them attention. While sometimes they might think they don’t need you (heck they might even be vocal to tell you that), spend time with your children. I would add, spend time with your children away from the farm and away from doing chores together. Grab ice cream in town together. Play basketball on the driveway together. Go watch a movie. Talk to them. Listen to them. Hug them. It’ll fill their hearts and minds, as well as yours.
Raising teens isn’t for the faint of hearts. It is a tough job. What tips would you add to this survival list?
As mothers and farmers, we juggle a lot in our daily lives. From tending to livestock to managing the household, our responsibilities are diverse and demanding. However, when it comes to raising teenagers, the challenges can be even more overwhelming. Teenagers are at a stage in their lives where they are transitioning from childhood to adulthood, figuring out their identities, and testing boundaries. As a mother of teenagers on a farm, I have learned some valuable lessons along the way that I would love to share with you.
Feeding your teenagers is crucial, especially during their growth spurts. Make sure to provide them with a balanced diet rich in protein to fuel their bodies and minds. Remember, a well-fed teenager is more likely to be cooperative and receptive to communication.
Establishing boundaries is essential in managing teenage behaviour. Set clear rules and expectations for your teenagers, and enforce consequences when necessary. By creating a structure within which they can operate, teenagers are more likely to understand their responsibilities and respect the boundaries set by their parents.
One of the key aspects of raising teenagers on a farm is to involve them in the daily chores and responsibilities. By assigning tasks and teaching them the value of hard work, teenagers can develop a strong work ethic and a sense of purpose. In addition to farm work, encourage your teenagers to participate in household chores and other activities that promote independence and teamwork.
While it is important to be involved in your teenagers’ lives, it is also crucial to give them space to grow and learn from their experiences. Allow them to make mistakes and find solutions on their own, as this fosters independence and critical thinking skills. By stepping back and letting them navigate challenges, teenagers can develop resilience and confidence in their abilities.
Spending quality time with your teenagers is key to building strong relationships and fostering open communication. Take the time to engage in activities they enjoy, listen to their thoughts and feelings, and show them love and support. Whether it’s a leisurely walk around the farm or a heartfelt conversation over a meal, these moments create bonds that last a lifetime.
As mothers and farmers, we play a vital role in shaping the next generation of leaders and stewards of the land. By instilling values of hard work, responsibility, and compassion in our teenagers, we are preparing them to navigate the challenges of adulthood and contribute positively to society. While raising teenagers on a farm may have its ups and downs, the rewards of seeing them grow into confident, capable individuals make it all worthwhile.
In conclusion, parenting teenagers on a farm comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. By following these survival tips and embracing the journey with patience and love, we can guide our teenagers through this transformative stage of their lives. Together, let’s empower the next generation to carry on the legacy of farming with pride and purpose.
If you have any additional tips or insights on raising teenagers on a farm, feel free to share them in the comments below. Your experiences and wisdom are valuable resources for other mothers and farmers facing similar situations. And don’t forget to subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter for more insightful articles and tips on farming and parenting. Happy farming!
