As a child becomes a teenager, parents are faced with a lot of new behaviors, attitudes and emotions. These changes are usually expected because children at the age of thirteen to nineteen are experimenting on their newfound freedom as they leave childhood and approach adulthood. And with these changes come several inappropriate and unacceptable behavior that parents have to put a stop to in order to make children become more socially acceptable and responsible adults. Here are some effective tips that you can use when dealing with your children during this transitional stage:
Respond to teenagers calmly. Instead of resorting to shouting fits with a stubborn teenager, responding calmly would do the trick. No matter how angry, hurt or irritated you become, never let yourself be carried away by your emotions. Even if you speak in a low and controlled voice, be firm in what you say and the message will get across better than when you shout and act like a commander in the army. If you show respect then you will also get the respect that you are after.
Be consistent. Stick to the rule that you have set. You can be lenient at times especially when the occasion calls for it but not too often that your young adult may think that it is acceptable not to obey the rules. A good example is about kids doing their homework. If children say that they will do it but they actually don't, you can tell them that you will check with the teacher to see how they are doing in school. Lying should not be tolerated and you can talk and agree on consequences for such actions like not being allowed to go to the mall with friends during the weekend. And when you say it, show your teenager that you mean what you say.
Be a role model. You cannot tell your teenagers not to drink and smoke if they see you doing it yourself. Simply put, you have to practice what you preach. You have to be credible when you discipline your child, otherwise, it would be hard for them to understand why they are not allowed to do such things. Also, the natural curiosity of children during this stage often makes them try the things they see around them. Therefore, you have to avoid bad vices as much as possible if you don't want to have heated discussions with your teenagers about these vices. Discipline yourself first before you start to discipline them. And a very good advice that parents should always bear in mind is to reward the positive behavior and good attitudes that they see in their children. The reward does not have to be material things but a word of praise will do. Especially during their teenage years, your children will be seeking out appreciation and acceptance so be the one to give these to them.
Do you need help making your children mind without losing yours? Get resources, articles, and advice on child-rearing and discipline for toddlers through teens at How to Discipline [http://www.how-to-discipline.com].
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