Radio Commentary
The teen years can be tough to
navigate, both for the teens themselves and for their parents.
It can seem as if all family
interactions and relationships have changed. Sometimes new strategies are
required to insure smooth sailing through these stormy times.
Remember
that teens need clear limits that define what is safe and acceptable
They need
discipline that is consistent and fair in all areas. They will be quick to zero
in on actions that are seemingly unjust—even if the practices worked when they
were younger.
Teens need
positive role models who find pleasure in work, reading, hobbies, and family
activities. No role model in that area is more powerful than a parent.
Teens also need permission to fail,
with a tolerance for mistakes. No child can be perfect in every way. The
telling family interactions are those that happen when mistakes are made or
disappointments occur.
Never
forget that teens need the chance to laugh and be happy, with their friends and
their family. They need the chance to be successful, and it’s important to help
them find an arena where that can occur.
Teens also need structured family
activities, including meals and vacations. They need friends who provide a
positive peer influence.
Teens need
the encouragement to be responsible. Positive reinforcement helps.
They also
need to be trusted and supported by important adults in their lives. Most of
all, they need to be loved.
