There’s also something sad about thinking: “If we can just get through this bit …” Why not just live through it and accept it for what it is rather than having to put yourself at the heart of some glamorous drama where you the parent are the hero-protector or tortured victim (of the “terrible twos”, of the “nightmare teen years”). It’s their life, not ours. Also, the really best, best time in any family? When you have loads of spare time and money. Good luck with that.