Parenting doubts as your children get older

Being on holiday with my increasingly independent children has left me feeling a little... rudderless.

Is it just me? One minute you're the centre of their universe, and then you blink and you're just the person who packs the snacks and hangs out the wet swimwear.

As they dive into adventurous activities that make me nervous just watching, I find myself becoming ever more risk averse and morphing into nagging Mum.

It's normal to feel like your role as a parent is diminishing as your kids grow more self-sufficient.

But here's a secret: you're still at the centre of their universe – just in a different way . As parents of older kids, we're often the essential emotional support system they need when life gets tough. We may not be needed every minute, but when we are, we're irreplaceable.

And let's give ourselves a big pat on the back – their independence is a testament to our parenting skills!

We've raised confident, capable humans who are ready to take on the world. So, maybe it's time to redefine what being a 'good parent' looks like. It's about being a safe haven, a guiding light, and a constant source of love and support .

If you're feeling like me, you're not alone. While my kids are launching themselves into the freezing waters of the Irish sea, I'm over here psyching myself up to join them - or maybe just cheer them on in the warm.