Raising Happy Teenagers Not As Impossible As You Think!

Although we are pretty much all aware of the moody teenager stereotype, they don’t all have to be like that. Sure, we all have our down days and mood swings. But raising happy teenagers doesn’t have to be as impossible as you think! Here’s what to do…

Listen To Them

Many teenagers feel like nobody listens to them. Make sure you hone up your listening skills, so you know what your teenager is saying to you. In some cases, you may need to read between the lines and figure out what they’re not saying to you. Making your teenager feel listened to will help them to be happier. They’ll feel like they have somebody to talk to.

Don’t Invalidate Their Feelings

One thing you should never do is invalidate a teenager’s feelings. Their hormones are flying all over the place. Chances are, they feel things a lot more intensely than we do. They’re pretty new to the world and haven’t been through as much. Give them a break! If they’re hysterical because their boyfriend of a few months has broken up with them, don’t make them feel stupid for feeling sad. If you tell them they’re being silly, they’re less likely to talk to you.

Know How To Motivate Your Teen

Motivating teens to do homework and just get out of bed can be tough sometimes. When you know your teen, you’re more clued in about what motivates them. There are a few general approaches that work at times too, such as using uplifting statements and decorating in a motivational way.

Keep Up Family Rituals

Keeping up family rituals can give teens a sense of belonging. Even if this is just family dinner or watching a film together, make sure you stick to them.

Spend Quality Time Together

Quality time is really important. Teens can be fickle, and things can change fast. Make sure you’re keeping up with what’s going on with them and staying close.

Encourage A Healthy Life Balance

Some teens may want to go out with their friends all the time. Others might fill their time with work. Make sure you encourage a healthy life balance. They should be doing their work, having a social life, and getting plenty of sleep too. You can also encourage them to stay active!

Pick Your Battles

You don’t want your teen to feel as if you nitpick at them all the time. Pick your battles carefully. A messy room doesn’t matter all that much, but tattoos do.

Watch Your Language Around Them

If you criticize others or yourself around your teen, they’ll think this is normal. They may become too critical of themselves and others. They learn a lot from you, even if they are just listening to you or watching you. Make sure you watch your language.

Be Consistent With Rules

Set rules from an early age and make sure you’re consistent with them. Always be consistent with rewards and punishments. This makes teenagers feel more secure, and there can be no miscommunication about what they should and shouldn’t do.