Parents will always be parents, however old the child is. However, as children grow into adolescence, you must transition with them for you to keep your sanity.
It starts with little things like, ‘mom I don’t like those pet names anymore’ or ‘could you stop squeezing my cheeks?’. That is when you realize your baby, the love of our life is all grown now. Adolescence has hit them like a wave.
Some children find a hard time transitioning to puberty. They don’t understand why their bodies are changing, why they are feeling things, and whatnot. That is how some end up being rebels. As a parent, it is key that you transition your parenting styles to fit those of your growing child.
Here are tips on how to do it:
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- Do more listening…
Parenting can make you get carried away, especially if your child is still young. You think on their behalf. For teenagers though, things are a tad bit different. Try to be more attentive when they voice out their opinions. You can also initiate a safe space for them to talk by assuring them that it is okay to share. This helps build trust between you and your teenage child.
- A little independence is okay…
For a parent to give some alone time, it is either a blessing in disguise or they think the child needs some reflecting time. (Your child has probably messed up big time if it gets to this point). Teenagers will most likely want some privacy now and then. It is okay to let them be; whether it is alone or in the company of their peers. Of course, do a check-in just to be sure, but don’t smother the poor child.
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- Be gentle
The days of shouting because the dishes have not been cleaned are long gone once your child hits puberty. This transition requires you to be gentle and practice calmness when reacting to mistakes, especially in public. (Why do parents yell all the time anyway?)
- Boundaries please, it’s nothing personal
You need to understand that there are things your teenage child will want to keep to themselves. Either physical or emotional. After all, they are growing. Be sure to extend grace unto them and not patronize them for wanting you to knock before you get into their room. It is nothing personal.
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- Get help whenever you can
Parenting is no child’s play. (Pun unintended). So, if it gets overwhelming with your teenage rascal, just know that there are tons of parents whose kids have been there, from whom you can seek advice. There is no need to suffer in silence.
