Navigating the Middle School Maze: A Vet Parent's Guide to Mood Swings and Mayhem

Remember those adorable elementary schoolers who were once fascinated by your vet stories and thought you were the coolest person on the planet? Well, fast forward a few years, and you might find yourself facing a whole new breed of creature: the middle schooler.

Suddenly, those sweet, inquisitive kids have transformed into eye-rolling, door-slamming, phone-obsessed beings who communicate primarily in grunts and sighs. And just when you thought you had mastered the art of deciphering a toddler’s tantrum, you’re confronted with the unpredictable mood swings and emotional rollercoaster of adolescence.

But fear not, fellow vet parents! Our unique skills and experiences in the animal kingdom can actually equip us to navigate the sometimes-treacherous terrain of raising middle schoolers.

Taming the Pre-Teen Beast

Just as we learn to read the subtle cues of our animal patients, we can apply those same observation skills to our young pre-teens. Is your usually chatty child suddenly withdrawn and quiet? Is their appetite off, or are they sleeping more than usual? These could be signs that something deeper is going on, just like a change in behavior can signal underlying health issues in our animal patients.

Remember, those dramatic outbursts and mood swings are often driven by hormonal fluctuations and a rapidly developing brain. It’s like dealing with a hormonal Husky going through adolescence – lots of energy, unpredictable behavior, and a tendency to test boundaries. But with patience, empathy, and a healthy dose of humor, we can help our middle schoolers navigate this challenging phase.

Vet Training to the Rescue

Believe it or not, our veterinary training can be surprisingly relevant when parenting middle schoolers. For example:

• Patience is a Virtue: Just as we coax a nervous cat out of its carrier, we need to exercise patience when dealing with a moody middle schooler who seems determined to push our buttons.
• Mastering the Art of Listening: Active listening is crucial in both veterinary medicine and parenting. Take the time to truly hear what your kiddo is saying (or not saying), even if it’s delivered with a hefty dose of teenage angst.
• Setting Boundaries with Compassion: Just as we set limits for our animal patients to ensure their safety and well-being, we need to establish clear boundaries for our kids, while also offering understanding and support.
• The Power of Observation: Pay attention to your middle schooler’s nonverbal cues. Body language, facial expressions, and changes in behavior can provide valuable insights into their emotional state.

Staying Connected in a Digital World

One of the biggest challenges of parenting middle schoolers is navigating the ever-present influence of technology. It can be tough to strike a balance between allowing them access to technology and setting healthy limits.

Here’s where our tech-savviness as vets comes in handy. We can use technology to  stay connected through messaging apps, social media, and even online gaming. But we also need to be mindful of the potential downsides of excessive screen time and set clear guidelines for responsible technology use. There are even apps for parents to help track online activity!

Saving Time with Tech

Navigating the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence often means being there at a moment’s notice. Whether it’s a sudden meltdown over a friend, a late-night panic about a school project, or just needing someone to listen to the latest pre-teen drama, our time at home is precious. That’s where technology, both in the clinic and at home, becomes a true lifeline.

Just as we streamline our clinic workflow with cloud-based software – managing appointments, records, and billing efficiently – we can leverage tech to create more time for those crucial moments with our kids. Imagine finishing your workday efficiently  and getting home in time to help your pre-teen with that last-minute science fair project or the latest social media mishap.

Time saved in the clinic translates directly into quality time at home, so we can be the empathetic, observant, and supportive parents our middle schoolers need during this tumultuous phase. And yes, even if that support is occasionally met with an eye roll and a dramatic sigh, we know we’re making a difference.

Finding Humor in the Chaos

Parenting middle schoolers is not for the faint of heart. There will be eye rolls, slammed doors, and moments when you question your sanity. But remember, this too shall pass. Try to find the humor in the chaos, and don’t forget to lean on your support network – your partner, friends, family, and fellow vet parents who understand the unique joys and challenges of raising pre-teens.

At least your pre-teen doesn’t need to be dewormed or have their anal glands expressed. That’s got to count for something, right?

About Lauren Jones, VMD

Celebrated practitioner Dr. Lauren Jones is an influential voice in the veterinary community. Whether addressing state-level VMA groups, engaging in enlightening podcasts, or leading webinars, Dr. Jones empowers veterinary professionals through innovative practice management strategies and cutting-edge technologies that drive practice success, fight veterinary burnout and help veterinarians reclaim their joy.