{Home} is Where You Start From

http://www.homeiswhereyoustartfrom.com

if Bridget Jones homeschooled 5 kids, it would look just like this. A real Mom of OC, homeschooling 5 kids in real life. A daily diary of everyday learning, programs we use, books we like and the occasional mishap.

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Jenn is a winner of Top 25 SoCal Moms - 2012

In what ways is SoCal unique from other places you've lived or traveled?

What's the biggest misconception about living in Southern California?

What's your favorite affordable outdoor activity to do with your kids?

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Should I treat my 13 year old as an adult?

Jenn

no, a 13 year old should not be treated as an adult. We view our relationship with our kids as being in stages- the first stage, we are in charge. The next stage, around 11 or 12 we become more like a personal trainer- directing them/ lecturing them about right behavior, still telling them what to do, but also giving them some respect, listening to their side but ultimately we make the decisions with a nod to their wishes. At around 16/17 we move into the coach position where we are on the sidelines/bleachers giving encouragement, talking in a huddle once in a while - but they are now making a lot of decisions on their own, with input from us. Our oldest is 17 and we are in the coach position with her right now. I think a 13 year old wants some respect and to be listened to, but still yearns to be cared for and to have you as a safety net - they want you to say no sometimes. Kids this age have such bad impulse control, they really are not little adults yet.
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