|
Teenagers are busy people, but make sure your teen sits down with you for dinner at least a few times each week. This will help
keep the lines of communication open as well as encourage family rituals, which help keep kids grounded in family.
|
Most likely, a teen's first few crushes will come and go as fast as the latest box office hit. A relationship between a young
couple is often a casual one, and there shouldn't be any emphasis on a long-term commitment. November is not the time to discuss Easter plans together with two teens. Your
savings account interest should be applied toward college tuition, not wedding bells.
|
How can you have a good relationship with your teenager? What's the secret? Many parents get so caught up in making sure their
teen is on the right path and doing the right thing that they forget to connect by spending quality time with them. Nothing takes the place of getting involved and interested in
your child's life. We often think of quality time for very young children, but this term still applies when they are teenagers.
|
Young children want their parents to discuss difficult subjects with them. However, our kids will look to us for answers only if
they feel we will be open to their questions. It's up to us to create the kind of atmosphere in which our children can ask any questions -- on any subject -- freely and without
fear of consequence.
|
Now that your child is in an adult situation, you'll want to make him or her aware of that by treating them like adults. When you
talk to them, tell them why you feel the way you feel. Don't simply insist they use a particular option; explain your reasoning for it. Your kids may not follow your advice but
they are more likely to consider it if it comes as advice and not as an order.
|
Try to involve your teens as much as possible in the excitement of finally becoming a "big brother or sister" for the first time.
I am the mother of a 16 1/2 year old son, a 10 year old son, and a 1 year old son. Both, the 16 year old and the 10 year old are wonderful with their baby brother and help me
out a great deal. Sharing the responsibilities of a new baby at home has helped them accept having a baby in the house and makes them feel like an integral part of the nurturing
family process.
|
|
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families. 
