If you missed it, yesterday’s post was on celebrating younger children.
Parenting teens is both a privilege and a gift, really…it is. I’ve only taken one kiddo through the gates of adolescence and one is easing past the ‘tween into a full-fledged teenager status soon enough.
While I didn’t always wear my parenting best during those years (and don’t have tons of experience to speak of), we did have many laughs, lots of fun, and made great memories! This Valentine’s, remember your teen in the celebrations. Here’s a few ideas to help creative juices flow:
To a teenager, L-O-V-E is really and truly interpreted as T-I-M-E.
So, take a little extra time to…
~ show interest in their hobbies! Strike up a conversation about the books being read, the music listened to or created, the latest project they are working on. Find out what their next ideas or plans are and ask how you could be of help.
~ give the gift of touch. If it’s not already a habit, consider adding to ‘hello’ or ‘good-bye’ routines with your teenager a big bear hug, a peck on the cheek, a special handshake or fist bump…whatever seems comfortable to you both and connects you physically.
~ ask for their input in an upcoming decision. So there’s a teen who enjoys having an opinion? Constructively use it! Welcome suggestions on a grown-up conversation that seems appropriate and ask for their contributions or perspectives.
~ take time to compliment them. So maybe their latest choice in clothing colors or hairstyle isn’t a fave, but what do you like and appreciate? Sincerely compliment their appearance (or they’ll see right through the fakeness!) by writing a note, sending an animated email, or texting a quick message.
The teen years are a gift and a reminder that time has moved along in our child’s life.
Grab the moments and make them meaningful.
