Building Bridges: Essential Resources for Navigating the Teenage Years
Parenting teenagers can be a challenging journey filled with ups and downs, uncertainties, and constant changes. As your teenager begins to explore their identity, navigate friendships, and face academic pressures, it's essential to equip yourself with a toolbox of valuable resources to support both you and your teen through these formative years.
Communication Guides
Effective communication is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with your teenager. Look for resources that provide insights into the art of active listening, fostering open dialogue, and understanding the nuances of non-verbal communication. Check out "How to Yarn So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Yarn" by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish offer practical tips to enhance communication.
Parenting Blogs and Websites:
Stay in the know with top-notch parenting blogs and websites. https://parentingplace.nz/, offers up a ton of articles, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate those teen years.
Educational Support Platforms:
As your teen gets stuck into their school grind, get clued up on education support platforms. Websites like https://www.khanacademy.org/ and https://quizlet.com/ are choices for helping out with homework.
Heads Up on Mental Wellbeing:
Sadly, it can be common for your teen to face emotional and mental health challenges which is a result of changing hormones and navigating their life into adulthood. Familiarise yourself with resources that focus on mental health, such as websites like https://www.youthline.co.nz/ and https://www.nimh.nih.gov/, at Evre 2% of all sales are donated to Youthline. For practical strategies, check out "The Anxiety Workbook for Teens" by Lisa M. Schab.
Social Media 101:
Understanding the digital landscape is crucial for parents of teens. Resources like https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ offer guides on navigating social media, setting appropriate online boundaries, and fostering responsible digital citizenship.
Time Management Like a Boss:
With the increasing demands of school, extracurricular activities, and social engagements, time management becomes a vital skill for teenagers. Engage in some scheduling apps like Google Calendar to help your teen effectively use their time.
Parent Support Whānau:
Catching up with other parents who know the struggle can help you feel heard and relate to others. Join local or online parent support groups where you can share war stories, get some advice, and feel like you're part of the parenting whānau.
