Keeping Teens Checked Into Life

Keeping Teens Checked Into Life

Keeping Teens Checked Into Life

Teens go lots of changes during this age and stage of development.

Some are wonderful and others not so much. Parents will often complain that teenagers are disengaged from them or from activates they used to enjoy. The key to keeping teens checked in is to continue to nurture their connection to you. This may be achieved by engaging in activities with them that they enjoy; such as listening to their favorite music with them, playing a board game or videogame with them, or just grabbing something to eat with them. They may not be as emotive in their affection for you but they still need your guidance and love. Remember they are trying to identify themselves as separate from their parents while still needing the wisdom that only nurturing caregivers can bring. So, strike a balance. Give them their space to pick their music, clothing, hair color or extracurricular activity while maintaining a close connection and a “listening ear” when they need it. The teenage years will pass more smoothly if you do.