As a parent, the journey from the adorable toddler years to the tumultuous teenage phase is filled with challenges and joys. From the infamous terrible twos to the phase where they prefer anyone’s advice over yours, parenting is a constant learning curve. Today, during a talk, I was asked about the best approach to engage with children as they transition into young adults. It got me thinking about the importance of setting examples, establishing boundaries, and being aware of cognitive development.
1. Listen to Your Child
Actively listen to your child without judgment or interruption. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. Open communication is critical to understanding their perspective.
Case Study: a 12-year-old Sarah comes home upset after a disagreement with her friends. Instead of dismissing her feelings, her mother sits with her, listens attentively, and offers support. Sarah feels validated and learns the importance of expressing her emotions.
2. Be Involved in Your Child’s Life
Get to know your child’s friends, interests, and activities. Stay informed about their experiences at school and online. Active involvement helps you better support them through challenges.
Case Study: Mark notices his son, Alex, spending more time alone in his room. Instead of assuming it’s just a phase, Mark initiates conversations about his hobbies and interests with Alex. He discovers Alex is struggling with schoolwork and helps him find resources to improve.
3. Talk About Independence
Have conversations about healthy choices and building positive relationships. Empower them to assert independence while providing guidance.
Case Study: Emily’s parents encourage her to decide about extracurricular activities. They discuss the pros and cons of each option, allowing Emily to feel confident in her choices.
4. Teach Them to Say “No”
Practice refusal skills and role-play scenarios. Equip them with tools to resist peer pressure and make informed decisions.
Case Study: When Jake’s friends pressure him to skip school, he confidently declines and suggests a healthier alternative, like studying together after school or joining one of the sports teams or some other extracurricular activity,
5. Encourage Self-Assertion
Empower your child to say “no” and leave uncomfortable situations. Teach them to prioritize their well-being.
Case Study: Lisa encourages her daughter, Emma, to trust her instincts. When Emma feels uncomfortable at a party, she confidently leaves and calls her mom for a ride home.
6. Set Clear Family Rules
Establish boundaries and reinforce values like kindness and responsibility. Celebrate achievements and provide guidance when mistakes are made.
Case Study: Tom and his family regularly meet to discuss household rules and responsibilities. This fosters a sense of accountability and teamwork among family members.
7. Celebrate Achievements
Recognize and celebrate their accomplishments. Encourage the pursuit of interests and passions to foster self-worth.
Case Study: When Marcus receives a good grade on his math test, his parents celebrate by complimenting him on all the hard work he put into his studies and taking him out for dinner at his favourite restaurant. This reinforces the importance of hard work and achievement.
8. Build Self-Esteem
Offer positive reinforcement and encourage positive self-talk. Help them embrace their strengths and remind them of previous accomplishments. Challenge their limiting beliefs and share examples from other people’s triumphs over challenges. I recently came across a great series of books called Little People, Big Dreams Series, which will help here.
Case Study: Maya struggles with self-doubt before her dance recital. Her parents remind her of her dedication and all the hard work and practice she has done, boosting her confidence and performance.
9. Develop Social Skills
Support the development of effective communication and empathy. Encourage inclusivity in their interactions.
Case Study: Ben volunteers at a local charity with his parents, where he learns the importance of empathy and compassion for others.
10. Address Bullying
Be vigilant about addressing Bullying and negative peer influences. Teach strategies for standing up to bullies and seeking help.
Case Study: When Ava witnesses a classmate being bullied, she reports it to her teacher and offers support to the victim. Her actions promote a culture of respect and empathy in her school.
Key Takeaway:
Navigating the pre-teen years requires open communication, clear boundaries, and empowerment. Every child is unique, so stay engaged, supportive, and connected throughout this transformative phase.
As you embark on this journey with your pre-teen, remember that parenting is a learning process. Stay present, adapt to their needs, and cherish the journey of watching them grow into confident young adults.
Carol Dweck has some more insight on mindset click here
For more recommended reading visit books.