As your teen grows older, it’s important to give them more choices and more independence. How do you know the best way to do that for your teen?
Try not to give your teens anything they can’t handle. Set teens up for success by encouraging them to take steps that you know they’re ready for. For example, just because your teen is 16 doesn’t necessarily mean you should hand over the keys to the car.
How can you help your teen achieve their goals?
- Set up gradual goals
- State your expectations from the start
- Plan ahead – know what the next step or goal will be
- Constantly re-evaluate teen’s progress to determine when they’re ready for the next step
When it is time to take on a new challenge, help your teen by breaking bigger issues into small steps and taking one step at a time.
For example, driving:
- Help them prepare for the temporary license exam
- Help them get the temporary license
- Take them to practice driving in a parking lot
- Allow them to drive with you
After your teen gets their license, allow them to drive short distances alone
It is equally important to keep tabs on your teen. Know what they’re doing and who they’re with. Staying involved in your child’s life reduces the likelihood that your child will get into trouble.
Achieving this balance requires continual reappraisal of your child’s growing skills.