subject: Bridging The Generation Gap Between Parents And Teens By West Ridge Academy [print this page] The teen years are the most confusing years in a persons life according to West Ridge Academy experts. Oftentimes, parents and their teens clash due to what we call generation gap. Often parents want their kids to take a certain road in life when in reality the child wants to travel a different road.
Whether the issues are big or small, know that you're not always going to agree and kids need to be able to choose their feelings. Bridging the gap with your teen is always possible.
Are You an Understanding Parent?
No good parent will abandon his child even though they are in the adolescence period of their lives. Even though you would do anything for your bratty teen they still have the ability to say some pretty nasty things to you in times of emotional outbreaks.
As they say patience is a virtue even when dealing with teens. Ask them what they want, why they want it, and attempt to offer alternatives. This is good parenting, allowing them to choose how them feel and coming up with acceptable and appropriate actions of their choosing.
Be Understanding Not A Drill Sargent
Being an understanding parent means that you use the power of communication to connect your teens, and allow them to express their feelings to you. Be careful to not become a pushover and get walked all over when it comes to family rules.
If your kids wants more money as an allowance, with him you can determine something he is willing to do to get it and if he doesn't do it then he should not get the reward. If he continues his good performance at school, then you should give him additional allowance as promised.
Parents Should Spend Time With Kids
Parenting teenagers still requires that you to spend time with your children even though they might seem like adults.
If you want your kids to feel important, let them be involved in the family decision making processes.
Inquire about where they might like to go for the family vacation or what mini van you should buy.
Play sports, watch movies, shop at the mall, have a picnic or have chitchats with them once in a while.
How To Get Your Teen Motivated
If you want your teen to have a much greater sense of gratitude for you when you recognize their position characteristics and motivate them. If your teenager likes improving his skills related to Internet or technology, simply let him explain what he is doing. Use a little figurative honey and let them know you think they are great.
West Ridge Academy says that in the end the most important things you can do for your kids is to communicate with them and give them your time.
