| Parenting teens is a challenge for every parent | | | | actions and choices |
| regardless how respectful or disrespectful they may | | | | - Make your rules fair and reasonable; rules should be |
| be. We had two teenagers who are now well | | | | flexible enough to change as your child matures |
| adjusted adults but the process of bringing them there | | | | - Learn not to raise your voice or lose control, be |
| was a challenge at times and a joy at others. | | | | peaceful as much as possible |
| Parenting teens is a challenge for every parent | | | | - If discussions begin to escalate into arguments, stop; |
| regardless how respectful or disrespectful they may | | | | leave the room if you have to, give everyone time to |
| be. We had two teenagers who are now well | | | | cool off before continuing |
| adjusted adults but the process of bringing them there | | | | - Be consistent with your rules, expectations, and |
| was a challenge at times and a joy at others. | | | | consequences; make sure your teen understands that |
| No matter how good or bad your teenager is, he or | | | | they are in control of making their own choices, but |
| she does desire to be loved and valued. Unfortunately, | | | | that they will also be responsible for dealing with the |
| they are also just as worried about fitting in at school, | | | | consequences of their choices |
| being popular, wearing the right clothes, and not looking | | | | - It's your job as a parent to do what you can to keep |
| as awkward as he or she feels. | | | | your teen safe; this sometimes mean you will be |
| The following list of 10 tips for parent teen relationships | | | | making an unpopular decision. Your teen won't like it |
| can be helpful to restore or build a good relationship. | | | | but your goal is not being popular with them but act as |
| - Be a parent, not a friend to your teen | | | | a responsible adult and keep them safe. |
| - Know where your teenager is, who are with and | | | | - You owe your kids a safe place to live which is |
| what they are planning to do. | | | | essentially food and shelter - you do not owe them |
| - Encourage personal responsibility in your teens and | | | | expensive toys. They can work, save money and |
| be sure to praise them for taking responsibility for their | | | | purchase them themselves. That teaches responsibility. |