This Mothers Day as I sat down and reflected, I realized yet again that the 9-10 year olds are much more
mature these days. They are pretty independent individuals and thus require a different level of
parenting than their previous generation. Maybe this changes in each generation or maybe this has
changed more in recent years with the technological advancements being exponential. This made me
realize that motherhood of a nearly preteen has its similarities to leading a semi experienced team.
While we are their primary carers and the love of parents transcends all bonds, here I talk primarily in
terms of their education and extra curricular responsibilities and how they require a nurturing and
motivational environment for their growth just like our team members. Here’s how:
1. They both need their own space and some time to think and try things on their own.
2. Micromanagement doesn’t help.
3. They need a little direction to utilize their strengths to the best possible way and take up the
right opportunities. This could be in the choice of subjects or right projects.
4. In case of mistakes, they need a little patience and understanding and some kind of disaster
management. Later on a discussion on how to avoid them in the future. Mostly they already
take ownership and definitely don’t need blame games.
5. Timelines are helpful as are goal settings.
6. The clearer the communication regarding timelines and goals, the better. The more well
defined, the better.
7. Brainstorming together is helpful in case of a new challenge.
8. Having a routine helps. Be it school or fixed weekly and daily meetings.
9. Some autonomy is helpful. As is some togetherness.
10. Sometimes it’s good to have fun together.
