Survival Guide for Parents

Teenage years are a period of growth not only physically, but mentally, morally, and intellectually. Teens are often full of energy, thoughtful, and idealistic. Although these years can seem to be a battle between parent and child, this is a time to help your kids grown into the individuals they will become.

As parents, you need to tend closely to how much leeway you give your teen to be their own person. You need to think about if you are a controlling parent, if you actually listen to your child, and if you allow their opinions to differ from your own. This may be difficult at first, but the key is to let your child be their own individual. Put yourself in your child's shoes. Help your child by practicing empathy. Help your child understand that it's completely normal to be self-conscious.

Teen years are a time of experimentation, and sometimes this includes some risky behaviors such as drugs, alcohol, sex, and tobacco use. Openly discussing these subjects with kids BEFORE they’re exposed to them dramatically decreases the chance that they will act irresponsibly when the time comes. Share your core family values with your child and talk about what you believe is right and wrong.