Parenting Teens

Tips for Parenting Teens

For your convenience we have compiled a list of effective parenting tips below:

1. Your teen must always know you love them. When you are disappointed or are assigning a consequence always convey to your teen in words and actions that you still care about him/her tremendously.

2. Never back down from established rules. It is typical of teens to “push the boundaries” when trying to get what they want. Remember, your teen will not respect you any more by you allowing him/her go against your rules and do things that are potentially destructive. Your teen will understand the reason for your rules when they become adults. Studies have shown that adults typically approach parenting in the same way their parents did (for good or bad).

3. If you expect your teen to live a certain standard, it is vital that you as a parent are living up to the same standards and expectations. The old adage speaks volumes that states: “Your actions are so loud I can’t hear what you say.”

4. Good parenting requires parents to spend quality time with their teens. If you expect to influence your teen in a positive way, you must spend quality time with him/her. You must establish and maintain a strong relationship based on love and respect. Your teen must be able to trust and value your decisions.

5. Don’t lose your cool. Your teen will eventually turn away from following your directions and may even fight against the very values and traits you are trying to instill in them if they feel you do not like them or are trying to force your ways on them. They may act out just to hurt you even though they really end up hurting themselves more then anyone. Teens are smart and most of the time, if given the opportunity, they will choose the right way. Remember, one of the strongest desires for teens is to “fit in” and be loved and included. If your relationship is heavily weighted on yelling, screaming and punishing, your teen will likely start looking outside the home to find “acceptance.”

6. Be consistent. Parenting will not be effective without consistency. Be consistent in enforcing rules, spending time with your teen, and in showing your love to them.

7. For homes with two parents, be united. That means that if Mom says no, or Dad says no, then the spouse is supportive even if they don’t agree with the decision. Solve your differences with each other alone and never in the presence of your children. Don’t let your teen pit you against your spouse. This will empower your teen with manipulation and defiance. This can also put a strain on spousal relationships that may even lead to divorce.

8. Know your limits. If you are consistently failing as a parent in one or more areas and don't know how to make the situation better, seek professional help.

9. Be aware of your teen's struggles. Many times, teens will not ask for help. In the crucial years of adolescence, it is imperative that teens have proactive parents who recognize and help them deal with potential problems before they become a real crisis.

10. In order to be most effective, good parenting must start when the child is young. If you have a struggling teenager and are just learning the importance of the aforementioned parenting skills, you may need professional help to help get your teen back on track. Click here to view our featured boarding school.