Pennee Struckman -Parenting Teens Expert
Pennee Struckman Quick Facts
Parenting teenagers? It's sometimes hard to watch as your sweet child turns the corner to adulthood. The same boy that always wanted a hug, or to snuggle with you while watching TV now can't wait to go out in the evenings to be with his friends. The little girl who thought you hung the moon now thinks you know nothing.
Some parents battle their own unresolved feelings from the teenage years. Parents don't want teens to make the same mistakes. And some parents are dealing with the challenges of the onset of rebellion and physiological disorders that emerge during the teenage years.
The wonderful news is that there is hope. Your teen with reach adulthood, and the relationship will be okay. Although your teen will never be your baby again, he or she will come to understand wisdom and be all right.
The important advice for parents:
Do continue to interact with your teen and be interested in what interests your teen. Attend school and sports events. Be sure to spend some time listening to the music your teen listens to, and monitor the reality shows.
Do set goals and milestones for your teen, and communicate these. For example, when the teen can drive, have a cell phone, go out alone with friends, and begin dating. The milestones are privileges.
Do understand that all the good things you provide for your teen are your blessings. Communicate this to your son or daughter. Help the teen to understand that these are not his or her right, but a blessing you give because you love them.
Don't take teen attitudes personally. This is a challenge, but ALL teens act this way.
Don't tolerate the disrespect. Have a plan for reasonable discipline and apply it with consistency.
Stay in touch with the parents of other teens. Call the parents of your teen's friends, reach out to aunts and uncles, build a support group for yourself. This is a frustrating time in parents' life, and having others to share with really help.
Most of all don't be afraid to be the parent. Remember, you are not your parent, and your teen is not you. Teens may be pursuing independence, but really, teens want limit and structure. Think of it as putting the teen on a long leash. Pull it back when the time calls for it.
Favorite Quotes & Thoughts from Pennee Struckman
The teen brain continues to mature until ages 22-25
The teen brain's area of second thought is the last to mature
Parenting is challenging-each child is a new frontier
Getting Started With Pennee Struckman
I've raised three teenagers, one really rebellious, one focused and obedient, and one who's area of second thought was slow to mature. I have learned a lot from counselers and the social system.
My hope is to help other parents make it through the teenage years with their teen and parent-child relationship intact. And to support parents, and give them advice about what works, and what does not.
I write regularly at St Louis Parenting Teens (Examiner.com)
On The Internet! Take the Self Improvement Tour
