When your child enters his teens, he tries to become an individual in his own right, seeking to move out of the protective wings of his parents. Smoking, drinking, wearing skimpy clothes are just some of the things teenagers do, to be ‘in’ with the crowd. This is the time for you as parents to learn how to tackle them right. If you assume the role of a dictator which in more than one case is the rule, you can be sure to have a battleground in your own home. This is not the time to alienate your child. Instead, talk to him.

How do you do it ? Do not make yourself out to be the enemy and come down upon them for every transgression. Try and lay down some ground rules in the beginning. Make your child feel that you are on his side. Since it is very difficult to interpret the teen mind, just bear in mind that you too were a teenager once. Therefore, your self-righteousness at this stage will not win you any points with your children.

Parents generally tend to forget that their babies will grow up someday and when the time comes, they must let them go. Allow them to find their own way in the world. After all, you cannot protect your child forever. However, you must remember that you cannot allow your children to run wild without any supervision. It would be a very frightening experience for you as well as your child. Your child may never admit it, but he does need you to guide him and tell him what is right and wrong. You must therefore follow your instincts in deciding that some things are just not done.