One of my favorite quotes is from John A. Taylor's "Notes from an Unhurried Journey."It reminds parents that being present to everyday moments with their teens is just as important as preparing them for their future.
"When we adults think of children there is a simple truth that we ignore: childhood is not preparation for life; childhood is life. A child isn't getting ready to live; a child is living. No child will miss the zest and joy of living unless these are denied by adults who have convinced themselves that childhood is a period of preparation. How much heartache we would save ourselves if we would recognize children as partners with adults in the process of living, rather than always viewing them as apprentices. How much we could teach each other; we have the experience and they have the freshness. How full both our lives could be." - John A. Taylor
Dealing With Teens
The following tips will help you stay in the present moment and effectively communicate with your teen.
BE AVAILABLE
LISTEN COMPLETELY.
STOP INTERRUPTING.
ASK THEM FOR THEIR THOUGHTS, OPINIONS, OR SOLUTIONS.
FIND THE GOOD IN WHAT THEY SAY.
OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE VIEW RATHER THAN YOUR OPINION OR JUDGMENT.
USE THE MEDIA OR OTHER PEOPLE'S LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES TO COMMUNICATE YOUR VIEWS AND VALUES.
ALLOW FOR QUIET TIME TO FACILITATE CONVERSATIONS.
BE INTERESTED
ASK OPEN ENDED QUESTIONS.
AVOID TV DURING DINNER TO FOSTER CONVERSATION.
ASK ABOUT THE SHOWS THEY'RE WATCHING AND USE THEM AS TEACHING TOOLS.
LEARN ABOUT SOCIAL MEDIA AND BE ABLE TO TALK ABOUT IT AND MONITOR IT.
BE INVOLVED
ATTEND PARENT EVENTS.
EMAIL TEACHERS.
TALK TO ADMINISTRATION.
JOIN THE PTO.
VOLUNTEER IN ANY WAY BIG OR SMALL.
Healthy Links
The more you know about what your teen is facing, the better you will be prepared to help them. Start now by visiting these sites:
