Mom of boys…

Tween 10-12 Years

I (31F) have two boys, ages 9 & 10.

Their father and I split a while back and we do 50/50 visitation.

Their dad’s side of the family and mine are totally different.

Their dad still calls his mother “mamma” and when he sees/leaves his mom he gives her a hug and a kiss, but it’s like a quick peck on the lips.

Him and her both do this with our boys.

I just can’t. It’s not how I was brought up, I’d rather shake my father’s hand than give him a hug, I’m not sure if it’s just awkward for me or uncomfortable.

But my issue is, while my youngest doesn’t really care my oldest is a total mess about it and I am not sure the best way to explain it to him.

I just don’t feel like it’s “normal” for a parent to kiss their kid or vise versa on the lips.

I always verbally tell my kids I love them, I support them and I always cheer them on. I will always be here with open arms if they need anything and they know that.

When it comes to them going to bed or leaving to back to their dads I feel like hug, and a kiss on forehead should do but oldest will literally cry about it because his dad will give him a quick peck on the lips and I won’t…

Idk what to do… I don’t pay enough attention to others to know if this is “normal” or not. But is this weird to anyone else?

Posted Jun 30, 2025, 3:24 AM UTC

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