How to Raise Well Adjusted Teens
It happens about once per week. I find myself driving past the local high school on my way to wherever it is I happen to be going. As I slowly pass the school (going no more than 20 MPH, of course) I can't help but reflect on how much different things appear to be now compared to when I was in high school.
Back when I was in high school...
| • | We didn't have cell phones or the internet. We used pay phones and the library. | |
| • | We didn't dye our hair black and (apparently) avoid sunlight. We wore silly surfer shorts and took pride in our healthy tans. | |
| • | We didn't worry about school shootings or propositions from promiscuous teachers. Those things were unheard of. | |
| • | We weren't concerned with terrorism or war. Those were just things that happened in the Middle East. | |
| • | On-line predators were basically non-existent because, well, so was the internet. | |
| • | Musicians used to sing about having fun and being in love. Today the airwaves are full of references to drugs, crime, and the mistreatment of women. | |
| • | Drugs and pornography were only available to teens that sought them out. Today, those things are so readily available that children don't need to seek them out. | |
| • | It used to be shocking if someone brought a gun to school. Today it is the norm in many schools. | |
Yup, times have really changed. Teens have a lot to deal with these days -- as if there isn't already enough going on in their lives.
Parents need to be "on top of it" if they expect to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted teens.
Here are a few things that parents can do:
| 1. | Keep the lines of communication open. Talk often. | ||
| 2. | Raise a child that feels valued, respected, and loved. | ||
| 3. | Pay attention to what is going on in your child's life. | ||
| 4. | Recognize the warning signs for drug/alcohol use, depression, and future violence. Take action, if necessary, rather than slipping into denial. | ||
| 5. | Encourage participation in extra-curricular activities. | ||
| 6. | Set reasonable limits and boundaries then enforce them in a fair manner. | ||
| 7. | SPEND TIME WITH YOUR TEEN. | ||
| 8. | Seek professional help for your teen if you think it is necessary. | ||
Following these guidelines won't necessarily guarantee a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted teen, but you can bet it's a good start.