News, Advice, and Tips for Parenting Teenagers

"Whatever, Mom." "Yeah right, Dad, I'm not cleaning the kitchen, it's Brad's turn!" Teens talking back has become more common in this latest generation of adolescents. Many parenting experts point the finger at the parents, citing an inability to gain the proper respect.

"...contrary to popular belief, the main reason that children today talk back to their parents is not because of something that parents are doing wrong  but because of something they are doing right. Over the past couple of generations, there has been a revolution in parenting practices  harsh forms of punishment are not longer considered acceptable."

The elimination of harsher forms of punishment ("the switch" or hard smacks across the face) means that kids aren't scared of their parents. But it also means they're likely to be more sensitive to the suffering of others. One of the best ways a parent can respond when a teen talks back is to not respond. If you ask a question and get a sarcastic response ask the question again, and keep asking until you get a response that's appropriate.

Read more at TheGlobeandMail.com.

Labels: punishment, respect, pushovers

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 9 Comments

A new 30-second television commercial will air on NBC on April 30th. Titled "Daddy's Girl", the spot emphasizes the importance of saying "no" and guiding teenagers in making healthy decisions, especially when it comes to underage drinking.

"According to a recent survey conducted by Data Development Worldwide for Anheuser-Bush, 98 percent of parents agree that it's never OK for parents to buy alcohol for their own teens and other teens at parties or gatherings. Unfortunately, some parents say 'yes' when faced with this situation. Research has found that two-thirds of teens who drink say they get alcohol from their parents or other adults."

The Roper Youth Report, an annual survey of teens, reports that 74 percent of teenagers consistently name their parents as the number one influence on their decision to drink or not. Read more online.

Labels: parenting, influences, pushovers

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments