Have you ever looked at your middle schooler and quietly wondered:

"I love my child . . . why is it so hard to like them right now?"

If so, this episode is for you.

In one of the most honest conversations I've had on the podcast, I answer a vulnerable question from a mom who feels hurt, disconnected, and ashamed that she's struggling to like her 13-year-old son.

Together, we'll explore:

• Why these feelings are far more common than most parents admit
• How hurt can begin writing the story of your relationship
• The difference between your child's capacity and their caring, especially for middle schoolers with ADHD
• What may be happening beneath behaviors like lying, complaining, and resisting help
• Why your child's attempts to reconnect after conflict matter more than you might realize
• How to find your way back to seeing your child with compassion without minimizing your own pain

This episode isn't about pretending difficult behavior is okay. It's about learning to tell a truer story about your child, yourself, and your relationship so that hurt doesn't become the loudest voice between you.

If you've ever worried that something is wrong with you because you're not enjoying this season of parenting, I hope this episode feels like sitting down with someone who truly understands.

You're a human in a real relationship with your child and real relationships are strong enough to stretch without breaking.

You can find Bridget on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/bridget.parentcoach/

The Ultimate Middle School Parent Survival Toolkit is here: https://bridgetparentco.samcart.com/products/ultimate-toolkit