Got a 'crispy' teen in your house? Well, that is certainly not a surprise.
Parents are constantly flooded with warnings about the dangers of putting too much pressure on their teens. They are advised to turn down the heat because excessive stress may lead to anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. On the other hand, there is constant pressure to have your kids keep up with the other kids, take the most challenging classes, get into a good college etc.
What's a parent to do in the face of all of these confusing messages?
Well, here is my advice and NOPE it may not be popular.
Nonetheless, I stand by it.
1. Make sure that your teen has time to have FUN-safe fun that is.
2. Model the importance of BALANCE in life. Yes, it's okay to have a messy house for a day if you want to exercise instead.
3. I suggest limiting the amount of time that you allow them to STUDY. YES, you read that correctly.
4. Insist that they have at least half an hour per day to DECOMPRESS and relax even if it means that their room is messy.
5. Check in with them not only about their grades and homework but also about whether or not they are making time for exercise, fun, HUMOR, etc.
Your thoughts?
Barbara Greenberg and Jennifer Powell-Lunder are authors of the hit book, "Teenage as a Second Language: A Parent's Guide to Becoming Bilingual." They've set up an interactive website for parents and teens to listen, learn and discuss hot topics and daily dilemmas. You can find it at www.talkingteenage.com.
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