Tips From A Teen

Mon., Sept. 27, 1999

Krystal Christianson Inchelium

Here’s my take on these tips on how to get along better with your teen:

* Be real. I definitely agree that this suggestion is valid in improving teen-parent relationships.

* Be available and be involved. We like to know that you care enough to show up at our activities and are around when we may need you. Although, it is not necessary to “visit us in our own space.” Some of us feel that our bedroom is where we can occasionally escape from the rest of the world. We’ll probably feel invaded upon.

* Most teenagers feel safer with someone who is not gullible. Don’t believe everything we tell you. The most honest teen is not truthful all of the time.

* If you want more open conversations with your teens, relate to them how you dealt with life as a teenager. Be truthful. If you expect us to be honest with you, don’t slip by with half the story. Plus, we can usually tell when you’re lying.

* Let us know that it’s OK to mess up once in a while. We need to know that we won’t be neglected if we make some big mistakes. Life is a process of learning. Sometimes teenagers just need their parents to hold them for a few seconds, reassuring them that life can and will go on.

Overall, what makes teen-parent relationships work is ongoing respect for each other.

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