Parenting Teens Archives - Page 4 of 5 - Dr. Russell Hyken, Educational + Psychotherapy Services

15
Dec 10
0

Teen Gambling

My son seems to be spending a lot of time playing poker with his friends. He also reads about it on the internet and watches it on TV. Could he have a gambling problem?

Most kids are exposed to gambling long before they reach the adolescent years. They bet with their friends about who can run faster, make a basket, or choose the winning team. They play chance games at fast food restaurants with lucky scratch-off cards or look under the cap of carbonated beverages to win a prize. In fact, I will bet that you have made an innocent wager with your child and didn’t even realize it.

12
Dec 10
0

Teen Confidence

Tags : Teen Behavior

Teenager often experience a “crisis in confidence” when something in their world ignites. This can be as simple as trying a new activity or as complicated as navigating social relationships. And while feelings may be involved, confidence is not about emotions; rather, it is about ability and being good at something. Unfortunately, when anyone lacks confidence, it can lead to negative feelings, situational depression, and undue anxiety.

11
Dec 10
0

Sibling Relationships

Tags : Teen Behavior Teen Relationships

My 14 year old son used to be best friends with his little brother. Lately, my older child ignores his little brother, and they don’t spend as much time together. What do I do?

It is upsetting for parents to see their children drift apart. Siblings share a special bond, and it brings parents much pleasure to see their kids spend quality time together. The teenage years, however, bring on behavioral changes that impact how adolescents view family, and it feels like it happens almost overnight. All of sudden your child prefers time with friends more than time with the family. And when your son is home, staying in his room, playing on the computer, and text messaging his friends becomes his priority. This behavior is part of normal adolescent development.

10
Dec 10
1

Appropriate Teen Attire

Tags : Teen Attire Teen Behavior

My teen age daughter dresses in clothes that make her look too mature, and, I am embarrassed to say, a little too sexy. What do I do?

Before the school year ended, I had the opportunity to attend a high school prom. While some girls where dressed in traditional taffeta, many girls wore sleek, stylish and, yes, sexy dresses. Unfortunately, these adolescents looked mature beyond their years. These intelligent teens were able to push the limits of the school’s sensible dress code with heels that were too high, dresses that were too tight, and makeup that was too sophisticated.

10
Dec 10
0

Traveling with Teens

Tags : Parenting Strategies Parenting Teens

Our kids are now teenagers and it seem that their idea of a vacation differs from ours. What can we do to ensure that our family has a great time?

When your teenagers were tots, traveling was much simpler. A sandy beach with the occasional kid-friendly activity was all the family needed to have a good time. Now, however, your young children have become young adults, and the family vacation has become a complex negotiation as generations clash over what to do. To pave the way for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, do some advance planning and allow your teen a say in the stay.

10
Dec 10
0

Teen Texting

Tags : Teen Behavior Teens & Technology

On my most recent cell phone bill, I noticed that my teenage son had 1500 text messages. Does this seem like too much?

OMG (that is text talk for oh my god), 1500 messages sounds like a lot but it may not be. Consider that today’s teen texts for a variety of reasons. How, why, and when your son communicates may be more important than the actual number.

08
Dec 10
0

Teen Dating

Tags : Teen Behavior Teen Relationships

Last month, my ninth grade son ask me to help him pick out a Valentine’s present for his girlfriend. He seems so young to have a girlfriend. What age is normal for kids to start having dates?

First, it is great that your son still wants his mother’s input. When kids enter high school, they often start relying on their friends more than their parents. I hope you were able to help your son and that he had a positive experience around this very difficult time.

15
Nov 10
0

Connecting with Teens

Tags : Connecting With Teens Parenting Strategies

My daughter is getting older, and I feel like I am losing touch with her. I know that teenagers want to be independent, but how do I stay connected with her.

I believe that many parents are scared of their teens—really! I often hear anxious adults say things such as, “my teenager never wants to talk and she is rarely ever home.” The first comment is a myth and the second is an excuse.

20
Oct 10
0

Private vs Public Schools – Which is right for you?

Tags : Educational Success Public vs Private School

Many families agonize over the difficult decision of where their teens should attend school. Some choose public education based on a political conviction and others opt for private institutions based on family legacy. No matter your opinion, consider all the options as you create a list of potential possibilities.

15
Oct 10
0

Mean Girls

Tags : Bullying School Issues Teen Behavior

Some of my daughter’s friends seem to be teasing her a little more than they should. She seems hurt by this but tells me there is nothing wrong. Could she be hiding her feelings?

Girls can be just as aggressive as boys. In fact, some might consider female hostility more dramatic and damaging than boy bullying. Girls antagonize in a covert, complex and long-term manner; boys, on the other hand, are overt, obnoxious, and instantaneous. Girls employ socially manipulative tactics often causing good friends to be instant enemies.

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Dr. Russell Hyken