Community Prevention Tips and Resources Tips on Parenting Teenagers: -Make sure each rule is reasonable, clear and enforceable. If one of those characteristics is missing, the potential for conflict will be increased. -There is a difference between giving advice and listening. Sometimes, because as parents we want to be helpful to our young people, we get the two confused and our kids call it “lecturing” or “nagging” and tune us out. Ask, “May I make a suggestion about that?” and if they answer “Yes” you’ll find you really have their attention. -If you say to your teenager, “That’s your decision,” be prepared to mean exactly that and not to be angry or disappointed by the decision made. Specifically be prepared to accept unusual hair and dress styles if you feel your teen has a right to decide on their appearance. -The need for distance from family and closeness with friends is part of healthy development. Don’t worry, studies show that parents continue to be teens’ most important influence. -When talking with a young person whose response is frequently “I don’t know” or “I don’t care” try not to take it as back talk. Those phrases are usually indicators of feelings of pressure or attack. Work on how they can feel safe and encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings. -Talk with other parents and family members about how they handled similar situations. Remember to take great care of yourself, continue to tell your teen that you love them. *scchildren.org
Posted on: Tue, 30 Jul 2013 20:18:12 +0000
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