I’m going to be completely honest here. When my son turned 16 that was when he gave me a lot of challenges. A lot.
But what I’ve learned is that you have to tell them right from wrong, let them make some decisions themselves even if they’re bad decisions, explain the consequences of those decisions and stay CLOSE.
Let them know you are there – no matter what. Don’t give up on your kids. EVER. Don’t tell them to figure it out on their own. And I say this with what I know now!
When my son turned 17 I noticed he had started following the wrong crowd. I didn’t change him, but I made sure that he did his chores and followed the house rules. I was very worried for him then but I didn’t listen to anyone – anyone who gave me advice. I did what my gut told me to do. Moms have to be there even when it hurts when they don’t know what to do – just be there.
Now my son who is now 20 is one of the most hardworking and disciplined people I have ever known. He doesn’t ask me for anything he looks after himself. He is very independent. The other day he told me that his boss told him he is one of the best employees and that he is an asset to their company.
So my advice for any parents raising teens is to:
- Try to be less parental and a bit friendlier.
- Try listening to them without responding negatively. Talk to them positively.
- And stop telling everyone about their behavior.
- If you are going to talk to people about them, say positive things about them only.
When our kids turn to teenagers as parents that is when we should be more careful and mindful of how we interact with them. I’m not saying you should take nonsense from them. But it takes two to tango.
I have learnt to pick your battles. And stop reacting to everything my son does even now that he is a young adult.
Be more laid back in your interactions and with demands. They will come around.
Happy parenting ❤️
I hope this helps 🙏🏾❤️❤️❤️
WHEN WE KNOW BETTER WE MUST DO BETTER
Positive Parenting With Olu 