Leroy Scott Gives Tips to Help Good Parents Become Better Parents
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I know that parenting can be challenging at times, especially with teenagers. But, you’ve got to realize that things are just as difficult for them as they are for you. During this time, they are trying to figure out how to respond to the many changes their body and brain are going through. They are also trying to figure out how to have autonomy while still being submissive to the authority of their parents. Here are three things you can do to help you get through this tough time.
1. Be Consistent
Let your consistency speak for the love you have for them. Teenagers need a routine to help build structure in their thinking and in their life. Since everything around them seems to be going up and down and people are steadily coming into their life and leaving their life, you want to try to bring consistency. You can do this be being consistent in your rules and your reinforcements. You should also be consistent in what you say and what you do. In other words mean what you say and say what you mean.
2. Be Present
It was easy to rill around with them at age two and play ball and baby dolls when they were young, but now you’ve got to find new ways to connect. Join in on the things they like to do and do them often. These will create moments of conversation that will help them figure out what to do about some of the challenges they face as adolescents.
3. Be The Parent
I find that so many parents begin to feel guilty for being a parent. They really put a lot of energy in getting their children to like them, or at least being their friend. This type of parenting is often caused by parental insecurities about their own childhood or their own abilities. When your children are teenagers, they don’t need a friend, they need a parent. They are at a stage in life when they are trying to develop friendships out of the home and they begin spending more time with friends then they do at home. So friends are not a challenge for them. They need a parent. So don’t feel sorry for loving like a parent, and making decisions they may not like. They are going to love you for each and every decision that kept them out of trouble eventually.
Originally appeared on BLC Life Development Network.
Leroy Scott is an author, respected Community Leader, Pastor, Entrepreneur, Licensed Christian Counselor, and Relationship & Business Coach. Known for his authentic ability to empower, change and facilitate success, healing and personal growth, he has earned a reputation worldwide as one of America’s leading authorities on building Healthy Relationships.
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