You know, parents aren’t perfect human beings after all and perhaps this explains why they often make certain

[un]forgivable mistakes when raising their teenagers. While, this is understandable, it is important for teenagers to bear in mind that when it comes to raising teenagers, it is different compared to raising a toddler. Indeed, any parent would be deliberating incurring headache by raising their teenagers as though they are raising little children. That said, below are some of the things to avoid while raising your teenagers.

METING OUT TOO MUCH OR VERY LITTLE DISCIPLINE TO TEENAGERS:

Some parents, sensing a loss of control over their teens’ behavior, crack down every time their child steps out of line. Others avoid all conflict for fear their teens will push them away. You don’t have to do either of those things. It’s about finding a balance between obedience and freedom.

EXPECTING THE WORST:

Teenagers get a bad rap, says Richard Lerner, PhD, director of the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University. Many parents approach raising teenagers as an ordeal, believing they can only watch helplessly as their lovable children transform into unpredictable monsters.But that sets you — and your teen — up for several unhappy, unsatisfying years together.

OVER-BLOWING THE SMALL STUFF:

Maybe you don’t like your tween daughter’s haircut or choice of clothes. Or perhaps she didn’t get the part in the play you know she deserves. But before you step in, look at the big picture. If it’s not putting your child at risk, give her the leeway to make age-appropriate decisions and learn from the consequences of her choices.

IGNORING THE BIG STUFF:

If you suspect your child is using alcohol or drugs, do not look the other way. Even if it’s “just” alcohol or marijuana — or even if it reminds you of your own youth — you must take action now, before it becomes a bigger problem.

Watch for unexplained changes in your teen’s behavior, appearance, academic performance, and friends. And remember, it’s not just illicit drugs that are abused now –prescription drugs and even cough medicines and household products are also in the mix.

*This post has been partly adapted.

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