Your son Bryson won this past season of Master Chef Junior at just 11 years old. How did you guys discover his passion for cooking and support him in his journey?
Shannon: Bryson has consistently shown a passion for cooking. From a young age, he would pull a stool or chair into the kitchen to help whoever was cooking. As he grew older, his involvement increased. Initially, he would play with his own pots and pans while we cooked. Gradually, he began participating more actively, stirring ingredients and measuring them out. He progressed to layering lasagna and preparing mashed potatoes, eventually developing skills in barbecue and grilling.
We support his culinary journey by discussing his goals, from specific recipes to broader aspirations, and helping him map out the steps needed to achieve them. Accountability is key to ensuring he reaches these milestones. We have facilitated his growth by teaching him and finding recipes he wants to cook, letting him taste seasonings and creatively think what he could do with them, helping him cook and critique what was a success and what could have gone better, but most importantly, he has been surrounded by supportive individuals who continually pour into him. Providing opportunities for him to showcase his talents is also important. We hope Bryson continues to thrive in the culinary world and finds mentors to guide him along the way. Programs like Master Chef Junior have helped him realize he has a goal right now to be a culinary professional and we hope he embraces new experiences that will help him achieve his goals.
As a mom of a very accomplished pre-teen, what piece of advice would you give other moms who might not know how to support their kid’s interests or desires?
Shannon: Children need to explore different activities to gain a better understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, preferences, work ethic, goals, teamwork, and individual efforts. As parents, it is essential to allow them the opportunity to try new things with the hope of success, but also recognize the possibility of failure. It is crucial to guide them through setbacks, encouraging them to either persevere or to shift their focus to a new goal.
Balancing encouragement with honest discussions is key. After each experience, discuss how it went, what could have been done differently, what successes were achieved, and what lessons were learned. Accountability is important; as a parent, it is essential to ensure they follow through on their commitments and strive to be their best in any activity they undertake. This teaches them the value of perseverance and dedication.
What are some self-care practices you use to take care of yourself as a mother?
Shannon: It is often said that to care for others effectively, you must first take care of yourself. While I fully agree with this sentiment, like many mothers, I have not mastered the art of self-care and often find it challenging. However, I have discovered several strategies that work for me:
- Reading a book allows me to disassociate for a while and escape into a different world of adventure.
- Going out with my friends helps me forget a bad day or provides support and advice for my goals and needs.
- Pedicures are a small act of self-care that makes me feel better.
- Pinterest and journaling help me organize my thoughts, dream up new projects, create vision boards, and discover new podcasts.
- Time with Bryson. Sometimes, I set aside chores for another day to have a getaway date with my child, allowing us to treat ourselves and enjoy stress-free time together.
- Finding a space to recenter is crucial. It could be a neighborhood pool, a backyard oasis, a favorite chair with a scenic view, or quiet time spent with God in my room.
What is your greatest hope for your child’s future?
Shannon: My greatest hope for my child’s future is that he continues to grow in his faith, follows God’s path for his life, finds his purpose, stays true to himself and his values, follows his dreams, and can continue to be a positive influence in people’s lives.
What has been the most important lesson you have learned since becoming a mother?
Shannon: Some days are hard, and “your best” looks different every day. Give yourself some grace to make mistakes and start over.
At the end of the day, snuggle your babies no matter how big they are and tell them that you love them. Be real, talk about what happened and how to handle feelings. Apologize if wrongs happened, and give thanks for their understanding.
God blessed you to steward your child because He knows you through and through and you have the structure, love, and things that your child needs to fulfill their purpose and make it through this world. We got this mamas!
Rapid Fire Questions:
Favorite Season? Fall
Favorite Color? Blue
Favorite Snack? Fruit Smoothie
Favorite Animal? Dogs
Favorite Place to Vacation? Beach
Shannon McGlynn and her husband Mike met as members of the band at Auburn University. They have been married 16 years, live in Opelika, and together have one son, Bryson (12). Shannon is an Environmental Scientist for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. As a close-knit family, the McGlynn’s enjoy spending time together, hosting cookouts, and hanging out with family and friends. They also love supporting Auburn University bands and sports. Mike and Bryson participate in various cooking competitions, which is truly a family affair, and Bryson recently claimed the winning title of Master Chef Junior, Season 9.
Author: Staff
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