Be A Better Parent After Reading This

Parenting is actually a bit scary at first, because it is overwhelming to be responsible for the life of another person. Luckily, there are parents who have figured out some of the secrets after having spent many years learning the tricks. The more you read about parenting, the more prepared you will be to handle these important life decisions.

Teens

If you have teenage children, try to eat dinner as a family at the dinner table as often as you can. Sometimes teens may prefer to eat in front of the TV or at their computer desk. Having dinner at the dinner table as a family gives your children a chance to share with you about their day. This is a good way for you to connect with your teenagers and to show interest in what they are doing.

Having teens can be hard, but taking the time to talk with them, and listen to them, will have long lasting positive results. Let them know that you love them no matter what, and try to identify with what they are experiencing. Too often we parents gloss over their feelings to lay down the law, when a little understanding and a good heart-to-heart can make all the difference.

While teens want to be independent, they should know what rules they need to follow and what the repercussions of not following them will be when they exert that independence. When there are clear guidelines set up ahead of time, everybody knows what is expected. This way, nothing comes as a surprise, and nobody can use the "that's not fair' card.

While teens are gaining their independence, they should also learn that it's important that they still need to check in with their parents. Just a quick call is all it takes to say that all is good. This shows responsibility on the teen's part and on the parent's part, as well.

You may think all those public service announcements will serve to teach your teens they should stay away from drugs, protect themselves from STDs, and to be responsible drivers, but that's usually not the case. Parents need to discuss these issues with their children, explain their values and express what they expect from their kids.

Teens seem to feel that they will get in trouble if they feel they are in a situation the parents won't approve of. They need to be told that even if the parents get a phone call from them in the middle of the night; their lost sleep is preferred over their kids getting into a car with someone who has been drinking or out of another situation equally as toxic.

While teens seem to want to keep their privacy, and aren't interested in sharing their lives with their parents, you still want to keep the door open to them should they decide to talk with you. Just let them know you are there with an open ear should they feel like talking about anything and everything.

If you want your teens to become good members of society, then show them by example. Your kids will follow your words and actions and will look to you as a role model. What type of role model you are is up to you. If they have a good role model to follow, then they are less likely to make decisions that are bad for them.

The tips in this article provide insight into the world of parenting. Take the advice of those parents who have dealt with these same issues before, and enjoy being a wonderful parent for your children. Savor every moment of their youth and trust yourself because there is no reason to be overwhelmed!

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Nora Porter from California a freelance writer and blogger.