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Parenting Resolutions: Social Development
The Problem: Your teen is hanging with the wrong crowd.
While it's okay for your teen to have friends who are different from her, the trick is to figure out whether the values and lifestyle of the "questionable" pal are really worrisome--or whether you're just jumping to conclusions. Studies show that "bad pals" can be a bad influence particularly if your child has a weaker relationship with a parent or a flimsy identity. While you can't keep a tab on your child at all times, research shows that "hands-on parenting" reduces risky teen behaviors and negative peer pressure by four times.
The Resolution:
While it's okay for your teen to have friends who are different from her, the trick is to figure out whether the values and lifestyle of the "questionable" pal are really worrisome--or whether you're just jumping to conclusions. Studies show that "bad pals" can be a bad influence particularly if your child has a weaker relationship with a parent or a flimsy identity. While you can't keep a tab on your child at all times, research shows that "hands-on parenting" reduces risky teen behaviors and negative peer pressure by four times.
The Resolution:
"I resolve to be a "hands on parent" by monitor my teen's social activities closer and get to know his friends better without interfering with my child's social life."
Become a hands-on parent by make your home more kid-friendly so and get to know your children's friends.
Introduce yourself and contact the parents of your kid's friends to confirm their plans. Set clearer rules and expectations for curfew and particular activities. Monitor your teen's comings and goings especially between 3pm and 6pm when kids are most likely to get in trouble.
Nurture your relationship with your teen with high levels of involvement and low conflict.
Michele Borba's Parenting Resolutions for 2009:
Dr. Michele Borba is the author of over 22 books including 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know.
Introduce yourself and contact the parents of your kid's friends to confirm their plans. Set clearer rules and expectations for curfew and particular activities. Monitor your teen's comings and goings especially between 3pm and 6pm when kids are most likely to get in trouble.
Nurture your relationship with your teen with high levels of involvement and low conflict.
Michele Borba's Parenting Resolutions for 2009:
Dr. Michele Borba is the author of over 22 books including 12 Simple Secrets Real Moms Know.0 TrackBacks
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