Junior & Senior High School - Discipline

The foundation for your relationship with your teen has been laid long ago. This is not to say that some fine tuning and enhancements are not possible. Don't expect all to be smooth and pleasant during these times of growth and change. After all, if home and Mom and Dad were absolutely wonderful, what would be the point of going out into the world . Teens need to make "Home" not so cosy, so that they can contemplate the idea that one day they will leave to pursue their own lives.

Following are some suggestions for guiding your child though this very stressful time of life: .

• Establish realistic expectations for family rules, giving your adolescent increasing autonomy and responsibility.
• Reach agreement with your adolescent about limits, consequences for breaking rules, and independent decision-making.
• Enhance you adolescent's self-esteem by showing affection, praising positive behavior, and recognizing efforts and achievements.
• Continue to affirm and model family values such as respect for self and others.
• Minimize criticism and avoid nagging, derogatory comments, and other belittling or demeaning messages.
• Spend time with your adolescent and continue to show interest in his plans and activities.
• Respect you adolescent's need for privacy.
• Model safe driving practices (e.g., avoiding alcohol, using safety belts) and discuss family rules about driving before your adolescent is eligible to drive.
• Urge your adolescent to always call you for a ride if he or another driver has been drinking. Be sure your adolescent understands that you will pick him up at any time if he has been drinking.
• Discuss anything that your adolescent wants to talk about, no matter how uncomfortable the topic is for you.

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