A Quick Guide to Mutual Respect Between Parents and Teens

Ah the time when suddenly that sweet, cute, adorable, wanting to please little child turns into the creature from the black lagoon and the Parent into an overgrown lizard with as much sensitivity as Godzilla. Or so at least it seems to the opposing "forces". That doesn't have to be however. Parents and Teens need to remember one simple Rule. You are still Parent and Child.

This is the strange time; when the Parent is part Friend part stern Judge and Executioner. No matter what your Teen might say, they still need you to be the Boss. On the other hand, they now need to have the freedom to make mistakes and then pay consequences fitting the crime.
Remember back to your own strange feelings. It is their job to Rebel against your wisdom and it is yours to real them back in.

It is their job to think they know everything (after all you are a fossil) and it is yours to educate yourself about everything out there. Keep the lines of communications completely open. Don't make any subject Taboo.

Be ready with hugs and kisses, stern words, wisdom (which they will ignore, but remember later) and most importantly plenty of food. Teenagers seem to need double the food any adult ever needs.

Show true interest and *gulp* ask them for help once in a while. Not with kids chores, but actual Adult Responsibilities. You want them to trust you, show them that they are just as valuable to you.

Learn to say "NO" when it is needed and don't let tantrums change your mind.

Know, I mean really get to know, their friends. Let your arms be the one they feel safe in. If you are a Mom, be a Mom. Not just the cook and cleaning crew. A Dad a Dad, the one that sits you down and yes, is the one in charge.

And spend as much time with them as you can and they will let you. They will soon enough fly out of the house.

And most importantly, believe in them. If you raised them correctly, you already know what they are capable off. Treat them accordingly.

Last but not least. Never, ever go to bed or wake up without telling your Teenager that you love them. That they are still your "Baby", they might spit fire at you, but deep inside they still love to hear that.

This is the last stretch of the Road called raising your child. Now you give them the finishing Touches, before you send them on their way into the world. Make those last few Years count.

And remember, they are you Treasure. Treat them as such.