Topic: DEALING WITH TEENAGERS
“Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.”-Proverbs 13:16-
As a parent, it is exciting to see a woman or man out of the child you have cuddled and as teenagers, it’s fascinating to accept the responsibility of maturity. The teenage years are the most demanding years for both children and parent alike. A lot of challenges stem from lack of understanding of this stage of life. While the child marvels at the rapid change he/she is going through, the parent on the other hand has to deal with mood swings and other behaviours.
Raising a teenager can be a period of mixed feeling in the sense that you have to deal with the excitement or confusion from their changed behaviours and other things that potentially arise. This is the stage where they develop certain character traits and it is very important as parents to be watchful of them, because what they pick up and imbibe is what shapes and moulds them for life.One effective way you can be sure they are learning the right things is to constantly communicate with them. Talk about the changes they are going through, let them learn from your experiences, and give them the avenue to ask questions. You should develop a listening ear to everything they have to say, that way you will be able to know how your teen reasons, what he might have learnt, the misconceptions he/she has, and only then can you help that child unlearn the wrongs he/she may have picked up.Also, be firm in your decisions. This should be done in love, knowing that they cannot have all they want, especially if it would be harmful to them. You must be firm in deciding what they do, watch, who they relate with, and even where they go.
They must have an understanding laid down rules which they are to follow and you should be able to explain why they have to do what you have asked them to do. Don’t assume.Furthermore, don’t treat them with suspicion; doing this, will take and/or keep them farther away from you. This will only show that you don’t trust him/her and that would mean that there is no need to open up. Trust is very important in relationships, and trusting your child is as important as trusting your spouse. With this few tips, I believe your relationship with your teen will wax stronger and if it is in anyway bridged, receive grace to make amends!
Remain blessed!