Raising a teenager can feel like navigating a ship through unpredictable waters—one minute, things are smooth sailing, and the next, you’re caught in a whirlwind of eye rolls, closed doors, and shifting moods. Teen years are a wild blend of independence-seeking and still-needed guidance, where your once little one transforms daily before your eyes.
While there’s no single map for the teen years, there are ways to steer through the ups and downs, staying connected even when the going gets tough. Here’s how to guide your teen with both confidence and empathy as they find their own path.
The Mom Junction believes that parenting a teenager can be likened to parenting a toddler going through developmental leaps. It is stated that maintaining calmness and setting appropriate limits can help develop a healthy relationship.
“Listen to what the teen has to say. They are growing individuals with an opinion of their own. They have a right to it. Respect their views, try to see their perspective and then agree or don’t agree with it. Listen more than you talk, to understand what’s going on in their mind.”
The above source further advises that when dealing with teenagers, it’s crucial to be an adult and choose your battles wisely. “If you try to control every little thing your children do, they will be more likely to push back and resist asserting their independence.”
Teenagers deserve privacy and space, and parents should respect this right. According to Parenting Across Scotland, parents need to respect their teenager’s right to privacy and be considerate of what it’s like being in their shoes.
“Let them know that you’ve made mistakes and tell them some of the things that you would do differently if you had the chance. Let them learn from the consequences of their actions – don’t protect them too much.”
Also see: How to ensure kid’s safety at daycare
