Parenting a preteen or a teen may look like a Herculean task at times, as adolescence can be a confusing time of change for children and parents alike. But while these years can be difficult, there's plenty you can do to nurture your teen and encourage responsible behavior.
Following are a few strategies for parents.
1. Role modeling
“Actions speak louder than words”. Demonstration and role modeling is the best way to help children set good ethical and moral standards. E.g. teaching the moral value of ‘respecting elders’ while talking disrespectfully about other elders in front of the child.
2. Showing your love
As parents, our lives revolve around the child and we assume that the child is aware about the same but showing our love towards them by spending quality time and giving undivided attention at least once a day can have a magical effect on the child’s behavior.
3. Respecting them
As a part of growing up process, preteens and teens start developing their identity, ambitions, romantic interest and sexuality. This is the best time to give respect to their thought process and opinions to help them build their self esteem.
4. Keeping doors open
If the child has the assurance that he/she will be heard with an open mind by parents, it is less likely that the child will end up taking wrong decisions.
5. Setting rules in advance
It is always a good idea to set up some basic and clear rules in advance to convey what is expected and acceptable by the family to avoid any confusion or contradiction.