Parent of a Teen Survival Kit

My teenage years aren’t too far behind me.  Just about coughadecadecough or so ago.  Those were some tough years.  Grueling.  My poor, poor mama.  Why are we so deaf, dumb, and blind as teens?  Thinking like we have the whole world figured out? Perhaps it was just me.  No need to go into detail, right? My poor, poor Mama.  So grateful those years are far – well not that far – behind.

My best friend’s daughter recently turned 13.  ThirTEEN.  In an attempt to prep my BFF for these tumultuous years, I pulled together a few items intended to possibly ease the journey for both mother and teenage daughter.

Parent of a Teen Survival Kit 4

Contents:

  • Journal – To record the good memories and the bad moments.  The bad can be used against them later if necessary. You know, when the teen grows up, gets married, has kids, and can’t figure out why they’re children are so bad! Karma.
  • Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens – Because it’s all small stuff no matter how dramatic or exaggerated a teen makes it out to be.
  • Duct Tape – To avoid excessive talking back.
  • Dove Dark Chocolate – Regardless of how peaceful you wish these years to be, it’s a bittersweet time.
  • Band-aids, deodorant, tissues – It’s going to take blood, sweat, and tears to successfully raise your teen.
  • Excedrine Migraine – Teenagers and headaches go hand in hand.
  • Box of Brownies – Take time to bake with your teen.  Bond.  Listen to them talk.  Don’t judge.
  • Movie Gift Card – Take your teen out on a date.  Let them pick the movie. Laugh hard.  Don’t try to throw in a life lesson.  Just chill and have fun.
  • A Penny – If you receive a penny for every time your teen will say “it’s not fair!”, you’ll be incredibly rich at the end of these years.  This is the start of your fortune.
  • Q-Tips – This will solve “But I didn’t hear you tell me my curfew/no car/no phone/etc.”
  • One Direction CD – Learn the lyrics to your teen’s favorite songs.  They might think you’re cool.  Maybe.  This one may backfire.
  • A Picture Frame – Try to picture a close and respectful relationship.  Though these years are difficult, they too shall pass.

Parent of a Teen Survival Kit 3

Parent of a Teen Survival Kit

This gift was all in good fun and I obviously don’t think band-aids and brownies will help my BFF through the years.  It’s just a reminder to have a sense of humor, be patient, and trust that with even the best of intentions, our children will make their own mistakes.

I can’t even begin to imagine what it’s like to raise a teenager.  My own J is 6 going on 17.  You know what they say, what goes around comes around.  And boy do I have a thing or two coming once she hits those teenage years.  Pray for me!

Mamas of teens: How do you/did you do it? Share your best advice. 

5 Comments

  • HijabiMommy says:

    What a fun idea! I always look forward to your creative ideas. I am petrified of the teenage years. I just pray they are easy…especially with three girls.

  • Farah says:

    assalamualaykum sis Amnah! mashaAllah, love the idea of this survival kit!! wish i had one when i was a teenager hehe <3 glad to chance upon your inspiring blog!!!!

    x, Farah

    • Amnah says:

      Wa Alikum Assalam, Thank you! I know, same here. Maybe I would have been less of a hassle for my parents :-X Thank you for stopping by and commenting 🙂

  • Orly says:

    Dear Amnah,
    Just stumbled upon your blog and enjoy your ideas, humor and style.
    The best tip to survive the daunting task of raising children (at any age!) is a huge sense of humor. I am sure you will be able to handle and survive anything your daughter will throw at you.
    Wishing you health and strength.

    • Amnah says:

      Hello Orly, Thank you for your kind comment! Yes, a sense of humor is key! I hope I have the strength to laugh instead of cry through those difficult years 🙂

  • Ummu Itqan says:

    My first boy just turned twelve so technically he is “tween” but if we calculate via hijri calendar, he would probably have turned 13 already! Thank you for this idea and I shall brace myself from next year onward. I have already envisioned the deodorant and facial wash for him but nothing comes close to your kit! MashaALlah tabarakallah!

  • Your survival kit is adorable! I have a teenage son who is full blown into the deaf, dumb, and blind stage. I know they always say girls are harder, but the testosterone….and the I know everything about everything all the time is so annoying. *Deep Breath* I need to remember to just keep breathing and chose my battles. Ugh…this too shall pass. Brownies will always make things better. 😉 Thanks for the post!!!

Comments are closed.