What young people want their parents to know

“My friends are really important to me.” Allow me to hang out with my friends and also help make our family time fun and enjoyable.

“I like my privacy at home.” Help me learn to gain your respect at home. I want to feel respected.

“I like consistency but I won’t admit it.” Too much freedom with no consequences will lead me to trouble.

“Teach me how to make choices.” Don’t bail me out if I would learn an important life lesson by accepting the consequences of my choices.

“I appreciate having a list of things to do and a deadline for completing them.” Constant nagging bugs me.

“Please don’t choose my extracurricular activities or push me to participate in an activity when it’s obvious I’m not interested.”

“Let’s not argue about school.” If you expect me to get A’s and B’s, say so. Telling me to “do my best” doesn’t give me a clear picture of what you expect.

“When I’m feeling down, give me some time and space to sort out my emotions.” Just let me know that you’ll be ready to listen when I’m ready to talk.

“I’m noticing my appearance more now than I did in the past.” Please don’t comment on how I look, especially in public or around my friends. It’s embarrassing.