Here are 4 Ways to Let Your Teen Express Themselves (Safely)!
From puberty to acne to raging hormones, there are plenty of changes your child will go through as they evolve from adolescents into teenagers.
For many parents, this is the start of a battle where you’re no longer their hero, but rather the most uncool person they have ever met.
While some parents think it’s best to crack down on these changes, it’s often best to let them express themselves without getting too involved in their life while still making sure they are safe.
4 Ways to Let Your Teen Express Themselves (Safely)
Encourage Creativity
Many people do not think they’re creative, but this is not the case. Everyone has some creativity they can unlock; it’s just a matter of discovering it.
Most of the time, kids will gravitate towards art or music, but when it is too tough or they aren’t seeing the results they want, they might give it up before they give themselves the chance to improve.
You can help your kids unlock their creativity by introducing them to different mediums.
While they might not be great at playing the guitar, they could have a talent for other instruments. The same goes for art, writing, or crafts.
Don’t Judge Their Interests
As you get older, you can’t figure out why kids might listen to music that sounds like it is entirely void of melody or merit.
They might watch TV shows that do not line up with what you like, but instead of criticizing them, you must provide support.
Parents who provide support help to boost their teen’s self-esteem, even if the parent doesn’t entirely understand the appeal.
You want to let them find out who they are and these interests allow them to explore different ideas that can help them discover their personality.
Research Their Impulses
Teens are easily swayed by whatever seems popular, which means they might have impulses that they think are cool and which make them unique.
This could be dyeing their hair bold and vibrant colors, or it could be a rook, tragus, or daith piercings that you didn’t know existed.
You want your kids to be independent and make their own choices, but that doesn’t mean you should let them do whatever they please. They are still kids living under your roof, after all.
Still, if they show you that their impulses are more than a flash in the pan, researching them will make sure they go through with them safely.
Help Them Channel Rebellion Positively
You should expect your teen to rebel as they want to show you that they are mature enough to make decisions by themselves.
But, while a little rebellion is healthy, it can also get out of hand. Often, this involves hanging out with the wrong crowd, which might put them in danger.
For this, you need to find a balance. You can’t be with them at all times, but you can speak to them about hazards they might encounter and encourage them to look at other ways of channeling their hormones, such as through sports or other activities.
Allow them to Express Themselves
Kids go through plenty of changes as they grow and learn more about who they are and what they like.
While you may not be totally on board with some of their interests, you can still show support to help them become the best person possible.
And, once the teenage angst dissipates, they’ll be happy that you were there for them.
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