Good morning! Any parents reading this? Here’s an interesting article regarding connecting with your kids. When we first hold our tiny, sweet baby in our arms when we become parents, it can be next to impossible to get your head around them growing up and becoming adults. But, before they become adults, they hit that point that most of us do not look forward to – the teenage years. When many of us think back to our own teen years and the arguments, door slamming, boundary-pushing, and rule-breaking, it is something that so many of us dread – but it is something we all go through.
However, more and more parents are realizing how incredible the adolescent years can be with the right approach, giving those of us who are worried a glimmer of hope. Connecting with your adolescent is essential for a healthy and open relationship, and it is much easier than you might think. Take a look at these tips to help you reconnect with your teen.
#1 Have an open-door policy
Of course, it is important that you respect their boundaries and privacy and vice versa, but knowing that your door is open – literally and figuratively – whenever they need you can go a long way into maintaining a path of communication between you. Allow them to come and talk to you about whatever they want, whenever they want. In terms of a literal open door – make your home s place where they feel they can bring back their friends and even potential love interests. The more comfortable they are with doing that, the better you will understand and know your teen’s social circle.
#2 Plan some activities that you will both enjoy
It can be hard to find something in common with teens. They don’t want to be seen as uncool and hanging out with the grown-ups unless it is to do something really cook. Why not play dye paintball, take them to laser quest or a soccer game? Look at what they are into, and plan something based on that.
#3 Have some rituals and traditions
Creating traditions and rituals as a family is a fantastic way to bond, have fun and create special memories. Maybe it is going out to eat at everyone’s favorite local restaurant once a week, or treat yourself and the kids to something special once a month in exchange for good grades, hard work, good attitude, and behaviors. Whatever it is, make it unique to your family and stick to it.
#4 Show them plenty of affection
Regardless of how “cool” and “grown-up” your teen thinks they are, they still want and need and need affection. You can easily connect with your teen on a daily basis by doing things that come naturally to you as a parent, such as saying “I love you” frequently, making sure to always tell your teens “good night” and “good morning,” surprising them with their favorite after-school snack or meal or just a note left on their door to tell them you love them and are proud of them.
