Why You Should Have a Parenting Mentor

I have two parenting mentors; My plumber and my stockbroker. Both of them have successful children. So, after talking about leaky valves and mutual funds I get advice about dating, college, and life after high school. I have a 16 year old son, and my plumber has two boys. One is an attorney and the other is studying to be a psychologist. Our stockbroker has two girls. One is a teacher and the other is a college student on an athletic scholarship.

So, every time I have a problem, one of them seems to know the answer. If I'm having trouble navigating the trials and tribulations of the teen years, they give me a glimmer of hope that yes my child can be successful too. And their kids went through the same thing at one time or another.

How to Find a Parenting Mentor:

Think of who you know that has older children. It could be a friend or relative, or someone you know in a professional setting. Just make sure this person is someone you look up to when it comes to parenting. Do they give helpful advice? Do they listen well? And most of all, do they have successful older children? If you answered yes, to all of these questions, you have found your mentor! And of course, your mentor won't always have the answers. But sometimes, just venting your frustrations helps. And if you can turn to an objective person to just nod and listen, you'll feel a whole lot better.

When to Turn To Your Mentor For Help:

I don't talk to my mentors every time I have a problem. Mainly they are there as reinforcement. When I talk to them about something else, I slip in a little bit about what I am dealing with in the parenting department. And usually it leads to a long discussion. I remember chatting with them when I felt my son had no direction. And both of them said their children went through the same period.

Sure, I talk to my husband about our son. But he is in the thick of things with me. And at times, I need to speak with someone who is objective, and can offer a little perspective. As parents, we sometimes get too involved and don't see the big picture.

So, when you feel at a loss as a parent, you can talk to your mentor, and you'll realize that yes, there is hope, and no, this phase won't last forever!

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