I did a deep dive into a new project I am doing in August. It feels exciting and fun to learn & create different ways to tweak & do the same things I that I normally do.
I don't know if that makes sense. I had to make myself stop and take care of some things that I was slacking on.
Do any of you teens mom's have issues with them being anti social like that?
I think all teens are different in their social skills and desires. I am learning how autism affects social skill where even the basics of looking people in the eye when talking, shaking hands, and small talk is a BIG struggle. We have spent years talking about the life skills needed and practice these social skills with DD15 because it doesn't come easy for her. It took a couple years of practice for her to be able to feel comfortable interacting with waitress to order her own food and interacting with cashier to pay for things. She needs these life skills, so it was important for her to be able to do them. Now she does them without any problems, but it was hard learned skills that included some tears and anxiety while learning them.
DD15 social skills are improving but it doesn't come natural to her. I just dropped her off on main street of our little town where she is meeting 2 friends to walk and talk for a few hours. They will hang out at park and walk to get drinks at coffee shop while talking nonstop. DD15 also talks on phone to friends for HOURS every day. Loud passionate conversation & laughter can be heard.
I text frequently with DD15 & DS17 even when they are in the same house. It is an easy way to keep the communication pipeline open and flowing (if that makes sense).
DS17 is almost always surrounded by friends. He has a dozen or so friends that are here frequently. I can't remember the last time we had a day without his teenager friends here. There is always some drama happening. The drama is usually little things that they make sound BIG as they learn to deal with different life skills & situations. Every day I listen as they talk and try not to give my opinion unless asked. I will ask leading questions that take them in the direction where they decide on a way to deal with the drama. But the solution has to be their idea.
...I don't think they realize my questions lead them there.
I could write pages everyday about the teenagers doings. I try to limit what I write here, so I don't bore everyone to pieces.
....looking at the lengthy essay I just wrote. SHEEzzz
Stay curious. Challenge assumptions. Success loves persistence.
When life gets difficult, learn to sing & dance in the rain.
