Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

01-07-2023

Let Teens Know They Have Some Influence

When babies play peek-a-boo, they learn about cause and effect. When teenagers stay out past curfew, they should learn the same lesson.

Teens tend to view adults as people who take away their ability to influence and control their own lives. This is not really the case. While teens still need rules, it's important for them to know that they have control over their behavior and the direction of their lives.

To help your student understand this personal power:

• Allow your teen to make independent decisions whenever possible.
• Suggest a wide time frame for completing chores. Within that time frame, let your teen decide exactly when to do a task. “Your laundry needs to be folded before bedtime tonight. Please see that it’s finished by then.”
• Ask for your teen's opinion concerning some family decisions, such as meal planning or making a purchase.
• Suggest fixing up your teen's room so it’s the way your teen wants (within your limits).
• Put your teen in charge of planning the next family celebration.

Brought to you by:

Nye County Schools
Pahrump, NV

[School Success Ideas for Families]

© 2024 The Parent Institute, a Division of PaperClip Media Inc. All Rights Reserved.