Parenting Teenagers

Parenting teenagers is the toughest and most tedious part in parenting. It is because the teenage period is a time of numerous changes for the young person. He/she is no longer a child but neither is he/she an adult.

Teenage Development

The body of a teenager tends to change at this age as it is part of the natural physical development that takes place. He/or she tends to speak his/her mind and express what he/she knows. Teenagers tend to challenge traditional beliefs and authority as intellectual development takes place.

A teenager starts to grow and spend more time outside with their own circle of friends rather than staying at home. Many may start to be more sensitive to what others say or think, especially those of the opposite sex, which is part of their social development. Teenagers tend to be more temperamental at certain times and are highly aware of his/her sexual feelings and responses. It is normal as teenagers are groping with their sexual problem with curiosity, and bewilderment. It is perfectly normal as they go through physical and emotional development. As teenagers go through their moral development, they would tend to be more idealistic and may even question and adopt other beliefs based on his/her own discretion.

Relating With Teenagers

Prepare

Prepare for the changes that would occur in your child. Accept the fact that he/she is growing into a special and unique individual.

Accept Teenage Behaviour

It is impossible to expect that your teenager never misbehaves or break any rules. Teenagers tend to try things that adults do such as smoking and drinking which are not suitable at their age. Parents should be understanding and discuss these issues with them.

Communicate With Your Teenager

Teenagers tend to share their secrets with their friends or bottle it inside themselves. Try talking to them as an adult, giving them respect and not belittling them, especially in public places.

Provide Guidance And Support

Provide your teenager with guidance on making friends, dating, sex, money, school and career. Help him to understand himself better so as to enable him to make better choices in future.

Deal With Boy-Girl Relationships And Sexual Issues

Educate your teenager on sex and related issues. Allow them to share their views and introduce them to talks or professionals who can help.

Discipline And Limits

Discuss and decide on the guidelines for proper behaviour as he/she needs to know clearly what is expected, permissible and appropriate.