Adolescent - a stage when parents need to be close !-
20-Dec-2017
There is no doubt that for most families, the teen years present a challenge for both parents and children.
Middle School is not fondly remembered by most who attend. It is often fraught with scary body changes, bullying by peers and a new surge for independence. This leads to passive-aggressive behavior, self-consciousness and self-doubt and/or over-confidence and of course moodiness (Leave me alone.).
High School is usually better for most. It is a time to really begin defining ones self and realistically contemplating the future. Skill development is accelerated to prepare for college or job training programs. Talents are perfected. Social skills are honed and relationships take on more of a serious nature. Peer pressure is at its max and in todays teen society there are more tempting sidetracks than ever.
During adolescence, kids need their parents more than ever. Research shows that a positive family environment including fun family activities, open parent-child communication and the encouragement to participate in positive extracurricular and community activities, teens are able to navigate these years with relative ease.