Parenting Tips For Raising Teenagers That Really Make A Difference

By Jocelyn Davidson


Teens from every culture, regardless of whether they are rich, poor, male or female have caused their parents despair. This difficult stage of growing up involves tremendous changes in the body, the mind and the perceptions of every young person. They see the world through new eyes and they often rebel against the established order of things. This can cause conflict and unhappiness. By following a few basic parenting tips for raising teenagers it is possible to weather the storm unscathed.

One of the most important child rearing skills remains the ability to show the teen that he or she is loved and cherished. They need to know that their parents love them at all times and that their love is unconditional. Teens often say or do things that hurt their parents. They may sulk or withdraw from the family. Knowing that they are loved will help temper their behavior.

Unconditional love does not imply that the parents must blindly accept destructive behavior. The teen must understand that every member of the household has equal rights. It is therefore advisable to gently but firmly establish a set of rules. Every effort should be made to involve all the members of the family in this conference and to achieve consensus on the proposed code of conduct.

Teens are under tremendous peer pressure and they start to experiment with alcohol, tobacco, clothes that seem strange to their parents, body piercing and tattoos, to name just a few. Even when horrified, parents should refrain from outright condemnation and direct conflict. It is better to provide information impassively, to discuss the consequences of dubious decisions and to convince the teen to delay a final decision for an agreed period.

Most teens scorn well meant advice from their parents, claiming that they already know everything there is to know about the internet, sex and the dangers of drugs, for example. This is very often nothing but a front and many teens rely on their peers for information on such matters. Parents should try to provide their teens with objective information on sensitive subjects. They may not say so, but they will appreciate it.

It is unfortunate that so many parents try to provide guidance to their teens only to fail miserably because they do not set a positive example themselves. Parents should do everything within their power to act in such a way that their teens will be proud of them. They need to demonstrate that a balanced live does not mean a live without fun. When parents make mistakes, as they will, they need to acknowledge them.

Teens are entering their adult lives and parents will do well if they acknowledge the fact that their teens may have valuable and valid opinions. Teens must be encouraged to provide input when family decisions are made. Parents should make it clear that the input is deemed important. It may also be a good idea to give the teen more responsibilities. This will show him that he is trusted.

Teens are similar to old time sailors that entered uncharted waters. There is excitement, but there is also fear. When parents act as navigators, gently advising the teen on the best course, they can make sure that their teen will reach full adulthood safely.




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