Teens and How To Deal With Their Quirks

Teenagers and how to deal with their quirks. One Mom's advice was after 14 the teen thinks they know everything and you, the parent, is stupid and never had the problems they are going through.

Now, the remedy....listen, watch their mannerisms, keep track of what they are wearing to school, and then have a "sit down" with them. Don't confront them, just have a quiet chat about school and how they are coping with situations that you know have come up with them.

Don't allow them to disrespect you. That won't solve any problems. What the teen needs is someone to talk to that they trust. Don't try to be their best bud and don't interrupt them if they are talking. That shows them that you respect their time and opinion and in turn they will respect you more.

YOU HAVE TO SHOW AN INTEREST in them. Too many parents work long hours and expect that the kids can care for themselves at this age. You are still the parent and you still have responsibilities to that until your teen decides it's time to strike out on their own. Even then, you will still worry. But it gets easier as they show you they are making it on their own with a job and paying their own bills.

Good luck! You and every parent like you with teens will need it to keep your sanity during this time.

(parts contributed by D. Burrier)