Care and Feeding of Your Teenager

March 17, 2014

Raising a teenager? Here are 6 helpful ways to get through it:

1. Create trust. Trust is the foundation to a good relationship with your child, so it’s important that you trust your teen in order for him to reciprocate. If your teen trusts you, he is more likely to open up, which will make your job as a parent a lot easier.

2. Be understanding. You were a teen once, but understand that everyone’s experiences are different. Be understanding when she makes mistakes, because she will learn eventually.

3. Express love. Loving your child is one of the best things you can do for him. Your child may know that you love him, but saying the words and showing them reiterates it.

4. Be supportive. This is very important at this stage in your child’s life. Your child craves your support; whether they’re willing to admit it or not. If you withhold your support, it gives your child the opportunity to seek it elsewhere.

5. Let your child have some independence. It’s important for your child to find who he is and how he fits into the world. If you create that trust with your child, you’ll find it easier to let him be independent.

6. Be a good role model. Teenagers won’t always listen to your advice, no matter what kind of relationship you have. So be a good role model, because even if they aren’t listening, know that they’re watching.

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