Here are some quotes from four 21 year olds…they are experts because they were recently teenagers, and because they all now have great relationships with their parents. If you’re parenting a teenager these words may help to guide you: “Listen to your teens and try to help them through difficult situations that they may be confronted with. Keep your relationship with your teens honest and open so that your teens feel like they can come to you with problems, or talk to you about things going on in their lives.” (Kristy, from MN)

“If you want to know your kids, don’t make hard core rules about drinking and smoking and sex, talk to them honestly about the subjects because just cuz your parents tell you not to drink doesn’t mean you won’t. Most of the kids I know who are irresponsible about drinking have parents who think they are angels.” (male, from MA)

“Be open to what your child has going on in their life. Try to talk to them about it but if they aren’t cooperating then give it more time. At the same time keep a leash on the situation that doesn’t tamper with their social surroundings too much.” (Eric, from MA)

“I think that it is critical for parents to be listening to their children. It is hard with teens because teens always think that their parents don’t want them to have fun or have a life, but parents need to try and talk the rules out. I can not stress enough that yelling will only make things escalate and will make teens want to rebel more. Parents need to be authoritative but willing to listen and compromise.” (Courtney from MA)

Pretty great advice, don’t you think? These young adults have participated in my survey Three Sides of the Coin. Complete survey results will be released shortly, so stay tuned and put yourself on the mailing list so you won’t miss these rich nuggets!

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