Learn about ways parents can use effective monitoring practices to help their teens make healthy choices and avoid risky behavior. Talk about behavior and consequences Talking about behavior and consequences can help your child learn to calculate the risk involved in each situation. But be careful that it's not interpreted as a lesson, as this could encourage your child to rebel. If you work with your child to determine the rules and the consequences of breaking them, your child is more likely to follow the agreed rules.
You'll need to be flexible and adapt the rules as your child grows and shows that they're ready to take on more responsibilities. Talking about values Knowing what's important to your family will help your child develop responsibility and personal values. You can support family values by being a good role model in things like drinking alcohol responsibly, driving safely, and treating other people with respect. Keep an eye on your child Knowing who your child is with and where they are can help protect your child.
For example, when you negotiate rules with your child, one rule could be for your child to tell you where they are going to be and to call you on the phone if their plans change. It takes a lot of work to know where your teen is, who he's with, and what he's doing. Staying alert makes it more difficult for your teen to participate in activities that you want them to avoid. And the phone you're paying for must be turned on and answered every time you call.
Depression can make even the smallest things more difficult. Try to notice even the simplest positive things your teen does, such as going to school or doing the dishes. And highlight the ways in which they are taking care of themselves, such as doing homework, spending time with family, or keeping up with friends. Remember that this is not the time to be critical.
They don't want to feel that way. If they could snap their fingers and feel better, they would. Physical activity has significant benefits for adolescent mental health. For some children, dancing, yoga, and hiking are good options.
In addition, high school sports are a good way for teens to exercise and establish positive relationships. However, team sports can be intimidating for teens with social difficulties or fear of rejection. Therefore, other options may be a better option. Teens' interest in new experiences and the pursuit of strong emotions may include positive risk-taking behavior, such as trying new tricks at the skate park.
