Perhaps you’ve been dealing with senioritis for the last few months of your teen’s high school experience. If so, you’re already familiar with the challenges that come with the territory, from a decline in motivation and performance to challenging the rules and regulations of your household. Now that high school graduation is over, your teen will no doubt continue to experience a range of emotions. Not the least of these is a major move toward independence. As a parent, how do you cope? Here are a few tips that might help.
Keep in mind that this is a natural occurrence. Your teen is starting the emancipation process. He or she will be leaving your household soon, perhaps going off to college in a few weeks or months. And although you’ve spent years watching your son or daughter grow up, it’s now time to let go.
Maintain some rules and guidelines. While it’s okay to allow your teen some freedoms, you’ll need to discuss the rules of the household as well. Your son or daughter is still living under your roof, and things like chores, curfew and mutual respect still apply.
Help your teen prepare for what comes next. Whether your child is about to leave for college or preparing for some other life adventure, you can show your support by helping him or her get ready. In addition to sharing some of your own experiences, you can teach your child about some of the more practical aspects of life, like doing laundry, preparing food and managing time.
Give your graduate some freedom. As a parent, there’s a fine line you must tread between enforcing the rules and allowing for some extra freedoms that will prepare your children for independence. Walk that line as best you can. Keep in mind that this is a process, and your child will learn best when you loosen up the reins a little.
Spend time with your child. Most parents realize that these are fleeting days, and any time you can spend with your teen is precious. Make it known that you love your child and that you’re proud of him or her. As your son or daughter prepares to leave the nest, this should be a special time that you will both fondly remember.
David Lowenstein, Ph.D. is a Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Lowenstein & Associates, Inc. in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to providing therapeutic services to individuals and families, he offers training and consultation to numerous associations, schools and agencies around the country. Additionally, he is a frequent radio and TV guest and a resource and contributing writer for numerous newspapers and magazines nationwide. Contact Dr. David Lowenstein at 691 South Fifth Street Columbus, OH 43206 or by phone at 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.
