Dear slice of life,
My son just announced his not so long term girlfriend is pregnant. She’s a lovely girl but they are only 17 and have been dating for 3 months.
I am not ready to become a grandma and do not think he is ready to be a dad.
How should I talk to him about it?
Yours, worried and anxious
Dear worried and anxious,
Firstly, let me acknowledge your feelings. Hearing about your son’s unexpected news must certainly come as a surprise and might be causing you a whirlwind of emotions. It’s completely normal to feel unprepared or even apprehensive about the idea of becoming a grandma, especially when you perceive that your son might not be ready to take on the responsibilities of fatherhood.
When it comes to speaking with your son about his impending parenthood, one of the key aspects to remember is to approach the conversation with empathy and openness. It is important to express your concerns, but do so in a way that doesn’t push him away or make him feel judged.
For instance, you could say something like, “I know this is a big step for you and I’m here to support you. However, I also want you to understand the responsibilities and challenges that come with being a parent”. Using this approach, you’re offering support while also encouraging him to think about the reality of his situation.
It’s also worth remembering that your son is likely going through his own set of emotions and uncertainties. He might be feeling scared, lost, or even excited about the prospect of becoming a father. Let him know that you are listening and will support them in their future plans whatever they decide.
Remember, it’s okay to feel unprepared for this new chapter in your life. It’s a big change and it’s okay to take some time to process it. However, it’s also an opportunity for growth, and who knows, you might find that you enjoy being a grandma more than you thought!
I hope this « Slice of life » proves useful and do keep coming back for more soon!
