by Chloe X

Created on: September 30, 2007

Becoming a parent is a life changing experience and no matter how old you are everyone struggles, at times, with the demands of raising a child. Having a baby can be the most exciting and rewarding experience you will ever have but it can also be challenging, frustrating and even terrifying at times. At each step of your child's development you will encounter different challenges and as a young parent the generation gap is one of the biggest you will face.

The relationship between a young parent and their child:

A young parent and their child will often share similar interests such as taste in music, clothes and entertainment. However, these same things can be a source of embarrassment for your child when they realize that you don't dress or behave like their friend's parents (who may be older) and if there is one thing no child likes it's to feel different.

Finances can also be a source of conflict between a young parent and their child. You have not had time to establish yourself in your career and find it difficult, if not impossible, to give your child the same things that their friend's parents can afford. This can lead to your child resenting you because they can't have the latest PlayStation game or brand name clothes and shoes. Quite often your child will rebel and act up because it's the only way they know how to express their feelings. This can be very stressful and young parents often feel guilty for not being able to afford the things their child wants and even needs.

The relationship between a young parent and the older parents of their child's friends:

It's a fact of life that some older parents look down on young parents. This makes it difficult for you to become friends with the parents of your child's friends. The generation gap is even more evident when you attend school events because older parents stick together and will do their best to exclude you from their group. You go to watch your child's school play and no one talks to you so you end up feeling awkward and uncomfortable and wishing you could make for the nearest exit. You stick it out for the sake of your child but start to dread future school events. These situations can make you feel isolated and ashamed of being a young parent because older parents make you feel like you have done something wrong. Don't let anyone make you feel guilty for being a young parent. Remember when your child is a teenager you will still be young enough to enjoy your life whilst older parents will be reaching

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