Things To Consider As Your Child Approaches Their Teenage Years

Children go through phases and as a parent, there can be a lot to consider as they get older. You seem to think that each phase presents its own set of difficulties, but as your child approaches their teenage years you realise that there is a whole new set of boundaries and things you need to be aware of. It isn’t an easy transition. However, knowing what to expect can help you to be more aware of the changes. With that in mind, here are some of the things you may need to consider.



Puberty

It’s going to happen. Hormones are going to start raging through my kids bodies as they make that progression from child to adult body. I’m going to have to explain what’s happening to my son and daughter. Although sometimes when this happens, they may still be too young to understand completely what is going on. It’s a confusing time.

Their mental health

It is important to take a moment to consider the changes your teen will be experiencing and also their mental health. This is where they begin to question their emotions and feelings, they can become withdrawn or struggle with certain aspects of their lives such as identity or things in school. Having the right resources to hand and even facilities such as Youth Villages could help you to become more aware of things.

Birds and the Bees talk

If they haven’t picked it up by now, it will be down to me to explain the birds and the bee’s. A conversation I think every parent might dread. It’s trying to find the right way to explain it all without scaring them or overcomplicating things. It’s a fine line. Maybe they will pick this up themselves, who knows?

Finance lessons

As they enter their teenage years, I think it’s the perfect time to discuss the value of money and try and teach them good lessons about finances. Encouraging them to save their pocket money and to appreciate the things that get bought with money. To learn the true cost of items and to realise money has to be earnt.

Attitude

This may be another thing that a lot of parents dread. Teenagers tend to develop an attitude don’t they? They answer back. They may not want to do the things you want them to. It’s not about getting angry or upset with them. It’s finding the right way to communicate still. They are pushing boundaries. Much like a toddler does when having a tantrum. I think the best advice is to take what they say with a pinch of salt. They won’t mean any horrible things they might say.

Hygiene

As with puberty, this tends to be the time you have to talk about personal hygiene. The use of deodorant and washing regularly. Kids can be awful to one another in the schoolyard, so it’s essential that parents help their kids out by pointing them in the right direction. It’s all about teaching good habits to last a lifetime.

Apart from them exploring their identity and pushing boundaries, it should be plain sailing. Let’s hope his has given you a better idea of what to expect.

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