Parenting Teenagers
Most people dream of having a prestigious career, nice family,
and a house in the country. The reason we wish to have this
life, is for social acceptance among our friends. We see famous
television families with nice homes, two expensive cars, and
three well-behaved children; thus, the social acceptance is this
unrealistic model based on a television script. Raising, and
maintaining a healthy, and happy family is contrary to motion
picture ideals. Parents need to work full or part-time jobs to
support themselves, and their children. Most households need to
have both parents working; leaving children to babysitters, and
their own devises. This is not a criticism of parents. It is
just an illustration of family dynamics in modern societies.
Raising children is challenging. Parents, who choose to stay at
home and raise their children, are often frowned upon, and seen
as lazy. What most people neglect to see, is those who can stay
home to raise their children, often have their own home-based
businesses, or work at home through a virtual office. This
choice of lifestyle is both rewarding, and challenging. It is
rewarding, because you can sometimes set your own work schedule,
and watch your children develop on a daily basis.
The challenge of raising children, while at home, is when they
begin to develop into adolescents, and young adults. The reason
is that they are trying to find their own identity and
independence. Adolescent youth, and young adults, often try to
gain their independence by listening to unique music, and reject
some of the rules set by their parents. This can cause stress on
the entire family, and test the strength of the most
understanding parents. How can parents survive this phase in
their child's life with minimal stress? As a young adult,
myself, I observed my parents, and feel it necessary to share
their skills with others, who are presently struggling through
these teenage years.
Surviving, and living with teenagers can be challenging, but
rewarding, as you watch them develop into young adults. Always
remember that one day they will become adults, like you. Discuss
subjects that they are interested, or have knowledge to show
your respect, and encourage their intellectual and emotional
growth. Teenage years are also a time in which he or she will
look for a potential companion. Don't prevent this from
happening, because it will create rebellion, and show that you
don't respect their judgments. Talk to him or her about your
personal life, goals, and fears. If you become his or her
friend, it is more likely that he or she will love, and respect
your opinions, advice, and wishes.
If he or she is interested in furthering his or her education,
encourage them by helping them with assignments, and finding an
after-school job to help pay for their own tuition.
If you can talk, listen, and befriend your son or daughter
during this period in their life, you will have an enjoyable and
loving relationship. You must always remember that you were once
a teenager, and probably had the same anxieties and enjoyments
as your son, or daughter. As long as you respect, talk,
understand, and encourage them, you will be able to survive, and
admire yourself for helping to raise your teenager into a young
adult.