The Parent Trap: 13 Tips for Teen Parenting

The Parent Trap

Teenagers. The very word makes a usually patient human being roll their eyes. The teen years can be compared to the “terrible two stage” of child development. As parents, we all remember the “terrible two stage.” But nothing on earth can prepare us for the teen years.

Here are thirteen suggestions for success:

1. Money is power. You are the parent and you control the cash. Appropriate behavior will follow. You teen needs money, like a fish needs water. Always bait the fish and gently remind your teen who has the credit card.
2. Know your teen’s friends and know their parents. Encourage your teen to hang out at your house. Parents can be in a different room of the house, yet still home to supervise.
3. Don’t be afraid to set the home rules and the limits. You are the still the ruler of your castle. Talk about the expectations that you have for your teen in your home and elsewhere. Your teen will listen, if you keep the dialog open and direct.
4. School is first. It is before extracurricular activities, sports, parties and a social life. Teens need to be reminded that school is a priority.
5. Establish a curfew and don’t budge. If your teen wants the car Friday night, then they will abide by your curfew limits.
6. Tell you teen that if they ever overdo the partying, that they can count on you for a safe ride home
7. Encourage your teen to have friends of both genders. But don’t encourage exclusive dating. Too often teens become involved in exclusive relationships and they don’t know how to handle them.
8. Encourage your teen to become involved in extra-curricular activities if they are succeeding in their schoolwork. Busy students tend to manage their time. Colleges like to see extra-curricular activities
9. Insist that your teen do some community service. He or she can volunteer at the library or a senior center. Community service will allow your teen to see the value of volunteering and making a difference. Colleges also like to see community service.
10. A part-time job, a few hours a week can help your teen with extra expenses and save you some money too. As long as the job is not interfering with schoolwork, it is a great way for teens to learn about being prudent with money.
11. Talk to your teen each and everyday. Ask your teen questions about school and their classes. Keep the lines of communication open and honest.
12. Attend Open House at your teen’s school. Know the subjects that they are taking. Introduce yourself to their teachers.
13. Be a parent and not a friend. Good parents are not always popular with their teens. Parents have to set limits and rules. Parents are important.

Remember, you will survive the teen years. Teenagers are really not that frightening. They are just physically larger children. Children who still need your patience, guidance, support and unconditional love!