I didn’t expect this to be one of the most powerful parenting tools.
I simply wanted to watch something I enjoyed that was also appropriate for my preteen daughter.
But watching Gilmore Girls together has opened the door to countless conversations I wouldn’t have known how to begin otherwise.
Cuddled on the couch together (or at least side by side), we’ve talked about peer pressure, bullying, family expectations (from multiple points of view), friendships (both when they come and when they go), and all kinds of sticky situations.
We’ve discussed when to say no, when to step outside your comfort zone, when to hold your ground, and boys.
Yes, you read that right. My middle school daughter and I freely and easily chatted about boys — what to look for, what to question, and what should be an immediate red flag.
And we’re only on season 2.
The best part of all is that nothing feels like a lesson. The dialogue just flows. It’s not forced.
“Would you be okay with that?”
“Why’s he getting so upset?”
“Is that fair?”
“What do you think she should do?”
“I’m not sure how I’d handle that…”
And rather than getting embarrassed or walled off, she leans in. She cherishes our Gilmore Girls moments, relaxed and together, experiencing it all from an emotionally safe distance.
It’s not about the show. It’s about letting something else start the conversation and us figuring things out as a team. Preparing for what might come up in our own lives, just with different packaging.
If you have a preteen or teen daughter… try it. You might be surprised what comes up.
Let’s Talk:
What’s something small that’s made a big difference in your parenting lately?
LauraKenyon.com 