Dear Parent/Guardian,
Teenagers keep a lot of things to themselves which could be harmful. They need a lot of help, advice and support because they struggle with emotions and other things.
The first thing you should know is working with a teenager is a process. However this process is easier if you have built an effective relationship with them over time.
The second thing you should know is teenagers don’t disclose information about what is going on in their lives at once. This means you must be patient with them.
Don’t be too forward or intense in trying to get them to talk. Let it flow naturally.
Start by discussing simple things with them first before going into deeper things.
For example, their academics, their interests, their hobby, etc, before going into deeper things like dating, relationship and friends. They will withdraw if you rush into asking them deep things.
Thirdly create an environment that will encourage friendship. Don’t be too uptight. Also create a balance while doing this, so you won’t end up being too free and loosing control of them.
Fourthly, don’t be judgemental or make hasty decisions when they tell you things, especially the negative things they have done or that is going on in their lives.
They are watching to see your reactions and if they can trust you. If you don’t handle it well, they will never tell you more things.
Fifthly you must be attentive so you can understand what they are going through. You must also provide care and support if they tell you anything, because they need it.
Affirmative words are also very important in working with teenagers.
Always remember that handling teenagers is a process that requires patience, care, advice and support.
Prayer Points:
Father give me wisdom in handling and relating better with my children and teenagers…. Proverbs 24:3-4
Compiled By: Glory Nnaji
For: GIANTS OF MY TIME (GOMT)
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