Teens - A Challenge

Teenagers are a challenge. They turn from a happy child to an angry stranger right before your eyes, although it's often so sudden you never see it happen. One moment they're asking you for a story and the next they're asking you to leave. These developmental years can are likely to be difficult for the both of you, Got2b glued yet there are a few things that you can do to make the rough ride a little smoother.

It's hard to stay connected to our teens. When they get to this age we suddenly become the enemy. They no longer confide in us. Instead they are confiding in their friends. Somewhere along the line we became these old people who don't know anything and certainly don't understand what our teenager could possibly be going through.

But we've got to keep trying. We've got to keep communicating with them even if they won't communicate back. I wouldn't suggest lying or sneaking around behind their back. When you get caught it just makes it worse. But don't give up on your teen either. At this age teens are very egocentric and thinking of the now rather than the future. But they still need their mommy (and daddy).

The following few steps should be borne in the mind of parents in dealing with their teenagers:

o Avoid arguing with your troubled teen
o Do not set your expectations of your teen too high or too low.
o Make suggestions instead of demands.
o Ask questions, but don't try to force them to give answers.
o Give them some space and privacy.

They are going to make mistakes, you can't prevent that. However, when they do it is not your place to say "I told you so." They will learn from their mistakes on their own. Your job is to be there for them when they need support. Remember, teenagers are a challenge, but so are adults. You are both going to make mistakes.

Samiya Anwar