|
Your teens are growing up in a very different world than the one you grew up in. It may seem like banning them from social media is the best way to protect them, but you may also be depriving them of learning to communicate in the native language of their generation, which could hurt their future relationships and even hiring prospects. What do you do? Engage in real conversations early and often. Check out the resource to the right for background, but set-up your own contract between you and your team. Be available to listen without judgement and help your teen navigate the difficult decisions they will need to make daily to live a safe online life.
|
|
Your child may be the bully and they may be the victim. Such are the teenage years where it is often hard to find the line between these. Other times it is stark and clear. Resources to the left can help you and your teen navigate the darker side of these years.
|
|
Sharing books with your teen is one way to start conversations and get to know each other's worlds. Suggest books from your childhood and be willing to read books that represent your teen's world. Being able to talk about fictional situations sets up a sense of trust that can go a long way during the teen years.
|
|
As a step-daughter and a step-mother I know better than anyone how difficult it is to blend families. It's okay to ask for help on this journey. My experiences as a step-child shaped much of my actions as a step-mother and I still don't know that I am getting it right. Listening to each other and committing to doing what's right for your children and your marriage and knowing how to balance each are key to a successful family integration. The resource to the left may help you as you navigate your personal journey.
|