Also you must never forget that you are guiding the development of human souls. I joined this group because I am finding adolescence a heap more traumatic than childhood parenting. My situation is exacerbated because father was an abusive man who, for a whole heap of reasons to do with his own childhood, tried to teach the boys to denigrate me and my family. I've left now and lots of things are heaps better, but surviving adolescence with the 16 year old who is in his final year at school and trying his utmost to do really well is not easy. The stress of studies, the hormones and of suddenly finding himself living one to one rather than in a busy household of 5 means that he is very difficult.
All ideas are welcome.
Regards from Australia, Judi. We camped with babies. Toddlers are harder, but well worth it. Do not be put off - just keep an eye on them.