Questions about parenting a teenager
Comments (3)
I can kick this one off. I have three now aged 20, 18, 16. Very interesting period teenageville. Large parts of this period, especially around the 15-16 mark, it felt like each of the kids sort of went away from us as parents which was to be expected but still feels very uncomfortable when its happening. They didn't really like opening up and talking, no longer wanted us around their social circles, didn't like the kaupapa work we are involved with anymore (granted always having to stay around late waiting for mum and dad to finish their hui). But they all come back in time, their independent space is enlarged but they also become more proximite if that makes sense. Our pōtiki is only just starting his return to us after a couple of years of being quite hōhā with us. It's hard being young today, they are growing up in a much more complex world than we ever had. What have others' experienced and what strategies have worked well in maintaining strong connections with your tamariki?
Please log in or sign up to comment.
Kia ora Cain Kerehoma
We're at the other end of the parenting journey with our tamariki aged 7,6,4, and 1. We often talk about how to establish strong and open relationships with our babies to try and ensure that they feel safe returning to us in times of need or to kōrero in teenage years.
My 6yo and I always have big kōrero at bedtime from challenges at school or understanding some of the bigger matters in life overhead in conversation. Its one of my favourite things to do.
They're still awhile away from teenage years - so yet to know if what we're doing is working! Would love to hear your whakaaro from those earlier days - what worked well / learnings.
Irene W
Just love them up everyday - they are a real taonga and they grow up so quick. We used dinner time as key whānau kōrero time - no TV or devices. Usually a whole hour just catching up and having kōrero about current events, politics, anything really.