At your wits end?
Sometimes I come across information related to raising teenagers that I find to be particularly helpful or relevant. Also, I receive calls sometimes from parents who feel like they are really at the end of ideas, strength, and courage to continue to help their teenager obey rules, get to school everyday, respect authority, etc. I cannot say it enough to parents...
CONSISTENCY and PREDICTABILITY is the key.
Don't say it if you don't mean it and if you say it, then you must stand by it.
Parenting children at any age is not an easy task and getting distracted from the job at hand is very easy when there are so many things pulling for our attention. It is never too late to remind your child that he or she is the most important person in the world to you and that you are not giving up on the job of encouraging them and helping them to grow into the young adult they are capable of becoming.
Find a time to speak with your child when there are few distractions and they are in a relatively good mood. Demonstrate calm demeanor. Speak with respect toward them as another equal human being. Explain that what has been going on is not working and let them know that you would like to partner with them to make some changes so that life can be better for both of you. Be clear and concise as you suggest 2-3 things (keep your list short and focus on the most important things like keeping them safe, helping with family responsibilities, and meeting school requirements) that you would like to discuss. Listen to their ideas on how they are willing to improve in the areas you mention and ask what they would recommend you do if they do not choose to keep to the plan you come up with.
Use the button below to access an article I found on 8 things you can use to help change behavior in your teenager.
CONSISTENCY and PREDICTABILITY is the key.
Don't say it if you don't mean it and if you say it, then you must stand by it.
Parenting children at any age is not an easy task and getting distracted from the job at hand is very easy when there are so many things pulling for our attention. It is never too late to remind your child that he or she is the most important person in the world to you and that you are not giving up on the job of encouraging them and helping them to grow into the young adult they are capable of becoming.
Find a time to speak with your child when there are few distractions and they are in a relatively good mood. Demonstrate calm demeanor. Speak with respect toward them as another equal human being. Explain that what has been going on is not working and let them know that you would like to partner with them to make some changes so that life can be better for both of you. Be clear and concise as you suggest 2-3 things (keep your list short and focus on the most important things like keeping them safe, helping with family responsibilities, and meeting school requirements) that you would like to discuss. Listen to their ideas on how they are willing to improve in the areas you mention and ask what they would recommend you do if they do not choose to keep to the plan you come up with.
Use the button below to access an article I found on 8 things you can use to help change behavior in your teenager.