parenting

ThirdAge Editors

Q&A From Our Experts

Today's Expert: ThirdAge Editors
Q:

My daughter-in-law enlisted my aid in wooing my son (I was sympathetic but remained neutral), and after marrying him has kept an extraordinarily tight reign on him. This precludes any normal relationship I might have been able to have with both of them. We've had many get-togethers but always, and only, on her terms. I've not seen them for four months (once it was three years), and their home is less than an hour's drive from mine. If he is in my area, she does not allow him to visit unless she is with him. I realize she can control him only if he lets her, but there are times when he has hugged me and said, "I'm sorry" without saying why. I can only guess.

A:
Dear B.G.: My heart goes out to any mother who feels cut off from a son she loves. But it does sound to me as if your son has replaced you with a ... Read More...

Discussion Boards

Roots and Wings

Have you heard the express, give your children roots and wings? Well, my wife and I got the roots part down pat, but the wings part is a work in progress. Our daughter is 28 years old and has an OK job (her description) working as a customer service rep for a cable company. She is living at home, although she makes enough that could probably get a nice apartment, especially if she shares with a roommate. But she says she wants to wait until she has enough saved for a downpayment on a condo. My wife and I are not really put out by her living at home, but worry that she might be afraid to make a move.

Anyone else have any insights into this?

--Greg

Parenting

Diary Details

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Parenting

Best-Friend Buzz

Don't make your mom your best friend. She's your mother and you love her, but best friends should be people other than mom. She probably has her own best friends, who are able to support her as yours do you. ... View slideshow >>

Parenting

Envy-Inducers

Beware of envy -- yes, even from dear old mom. Don't expect her to always be thrilled with your great career moments, for example, when she has perhaps never tasted personal economic success herself. ... View slideshow >>

Parenting

Near Misses with Danger

Don't keep making your mother responsible for you. If you're in trouble and you need her help, go to her with a plan that allows her to help you on her terms. This demonstrates respect and maturity. ... View slideshow >>

Parenting

Your Sex Life

Your sex life, perhaps more than anything else, helps to define you as a separate individual. Telling mom the intimate details lessens your tie to the men in question and keeps you her little girl. Also, has it ever occurred to you that she (and many other people) just may not want to hear about it? ... View slideshow >>

Parenting

6 Things Never To Tell Your Mother

By Nancy Friday Contrary to popular opinion, moms don't know everything -- nor do they want to. Get the scoop on the things you should never disclose to your own mother, then keep your lips sealed. ... View slideshow >>

Your Secrets

There are some things that you just don't tell your mommy. Keeping your secrets quiet helps to create a healthy separation from your mother. This begins early and continues throughout life.

Played hooky with your kids?


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