Teenage years can be very challenging for the parents as well as the kids. For the adolescents, these years can either build them up or leave a void in their personality as emotions and feelings are very aggressive during these years. On the other hand, managing a teenager in this phase of development is usually a huge challenge and not a pleasant one, in most cases. They often cannot understand what to do or how to handle the situation in an effective way. We are going to breakdown the boulder for you. Here is what you need to do:
Be There in the Early Years
A lot of parents are not involved as much as they should be in their child’s early years. Their bond is not very strong and they expect the child to open about their life to them later in their teen years. You should remember that this will never happen unless you have created a bond with the child from his or her early years. Teenagers are already very hesitant in trusting and sharing things with their parents and this lack of connection further distances them.
Be Understanding
Instead of blaming them or being judgmental, try to be a bit more understanding. Rather than asking them, ‘Why’d you do that?’, give the matter a thought from their perspective. Ask them to help you understand their decisions, behavior or what they said. This will convey the notion that you want to understand them and that you are making an effort to know them better.
Don’t Try to Control Them All the Time
Set up rules and convey them in an effective and appropriate manner but don’t try to overpower your child. Start giving them authority in a few matters and allow them to make choices for themselves. Your child is growing to be an adult and he will soon have to make important decisions in life. So, give them some liberty so that they don’t feel incapable of handling responsibilities later in their life.
Make Them Feel Trusted
Your child should know that you value and trust them. Snooping into their private space will only push them away and force them to hide things from you. Give them some room to be as they are.
Make Them Feel Supported
Your child should know that along with the trust and space you are allowing them, they are well supported as well. They should feel that if they make a mistake or face a situation where they feel isolated, you will be there for them. This, of course, does not give them a wildcard to misuse your trust and support and it can be conveyed with some core principles that you will not compromise upon.
Be Firm about Discipline and Principles
Being considerate and understanding does not mean that you will compromise on the essential principles. It is important that you discipline your child in the right manner as well.