How Teens Think They Should Be Parented
Parenting teenagers is often described as walking a tightrope over a pit of snapping alligators. It’s a delicate balance of guiding and giving freedom, of being supportive without being overbearing. But have you ever wondered what parenting looks like from the other side? Here’s our team member Isabella's view on how teens think they should be parented…
The "Unlimited Freedom" Philosophy
In the ideal world of a teenager, parental supervision is non-existent. It would be a life without curfews, and weekends would be solely for hanging out with friends. Teens firmly believe that curfews are unnecessary because they can manage their time. They envision a world where they can come and go as they please, confident in their ability to be responsible and timely. However, the reality is quite different. Teens often “lose track of time.” One minute it’s 8 PM, and they’re enjoying their evening, and the next it’s 3 AM, and they’re shocked to see the time and wondering why their parents are upset. This disconnect between their ideal and the actual highlights the importance of parental guidance in helping teens navigate their time responsibly.
The "Zero Chores" Lifestyle
Ask a teen about chores, and you’ll likely get an exaggerated eye roll followed by a sigh and endless excuses. In their perfect world, chores are done by magic fairies (AKA the parents). Teens think, "Dishes? Laundry? We’ve got more important things to do, like mastering TikTok dances or leveling up in video games." However, if only Wi-Fi could wash dishes and fold laundry. Chores teach responsibility, even if your teens believe it’s just a form of medieval torture.
The "Cash Flow Central" Concept
Teens have a unique understanding of money: it’s an endless supply that should flow freely into their pockets, no strings attached. They might say, "Money grows on trees, right? And those trees are planted in the backyard of our parents’ house." However, financial responsibility is a critical life skill. Learning to earn, save, and budget money can’t start too early, no matter how convinced teens are that they’re destined to become instant millionaires.
The "Perpetual Vacation" Principle
Homework, exams, and early mornings? In the minds of teens, these could easily be replaced by a perpetual state of leisure and fun. Teens often think, "School should be optional. We learn more from YouTube anyway." However, education might not always be fun, but it’s essential. And no, binge-watching tutorials on how to beat the latest game doesn’t count as a full curriculum.
Selective Listening
Parents, you might have noticed this unique ability in your teen: selective listening. They hear what they want to hear and tune out the rest. Teens might argue, "We heard you say ‘pizza,’ not ‘clean your room.’" However, communication is a two-way street. Teens might pretend not to hear chores or responsibilities, but miraculously catch every word related to fun and food.
Parenting teenagers is a wild ride filled with laughter, tears, and everything in between. While teens might dream of a world with zero rules and endless freedoms, the reality is that structure and guidance are necessary parts of growing up. For parents, finding the balance between giving freedom and setting boundaries is key. And if laughs can be shared along the way, all the better. After all, one day teens will be parents themselves, and the cycle of hilarious expectations will continue.
Cheers to the rollercoaster of parenting teenagers – may it always be filled with more smiles than frowns!
- Isabella x
