The "Mama Bear" in all of us

"I've never wanted to be in touch with my masculine side—I've always ignored it, as I love being a woman. But maybe it's been there the whole time and I simply haven't recognized it, perhaps the mama bear in me, the part that wants to fiercely protect my baby boy, is my masculine side rising to the surface."

— Madisyn Taylor, DailyOM

It has been a week since Kye started his new school. The decision to move him from Montessori schooling was a emotional and difficult, as the system allowed Kye to be truly who he is. However, as he grew older, we learnt that he required structure, routine and discipline to truly thrive in his schooling. We were fortunate enough to find a wonderful school in our local area and Kye was blessed to be placed in the hands of a caring, nurturing yet firm Kindergarten Teacher.

Kye's first week has been a rollercoaster. He was excited to take on the adventure, as well as nervous about the new changes. There were times both Scott and I just wanted to take him out of the new school and place him under our wing. There were times were we felt like bribing kids to play with him and be his friend. There were times where we had to smile and be brave when really we felt like shedding a tear. However, through being strong and guiding Kye, we have helped him create a fantastic result. Just after one week he is now running into school and telling us that his favourite part of his day is going to school.

This experience has reminded me of the emotional challenges we have with our kids. The Mama Bear will always come out of us when we want to protect our kids. However, through letting them find their way, allowing them make their mistakes and feel their emotions, we are creating children with confidence, resilience and happiness.

As mothers, it is hard to stand back and watch this happen, but as mothers, its our role to allow our children to walk ahead on their own, in their own way.

We can all imagine this will only become more challenging as our children reach the teenage years, so for now,let's be grateful for this age and know that what we are teaching our children now will infact help them later on life when puberty hits! Or at least we hope so!