The Rules of Parenting, 3rd Edition

RULE 51

Look for the similarities between you

With certain kids you can just skip on to the next Rule here. Sometimes your child reminds you of yourself constantly, and the tough thing is remembering that they don’t always think the same way as you.

But some children are the opposite. You look at them wondering how they can possibly be yours. You have nothing in common and you have no clue as to how their mind works. They behave in ways that are anathema to you. Why would anyone want to burst into tears when you get cross, you wonder, instead of answer back? How can they think of playing with slugs and spiders when you don’t even want to think about them?

Of course, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t like, admire and love this child as much ...