Co-parenting families can have big circles of caregivers – often including the other parent’s new significant other, a neighbor to help with schedule gaps, or family and friends that help out when needed. Engaging in positive interactions with your co-parent, as well as all new (or old!) caregivers can be an important step in demonstrating […]
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As your child (and you!) learn to navigate the new structure of a co-parenting relationship, it is important to provide consistency with routines and clear schedules. Be an eParent®! Set up a regular time for your child to communicate with his or her other parent – even sending a text message while eating breakfast or […]
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Believe it or not, your teen is thinking about what it means “to be” in life and their place in the world. One way for your child to achieve success is to become a life-long learner. Talk about how everyone is continually growing and learning. Ask your teen about an older adult they admire and […]
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Think that letter “d” can’t happen to you? The number of youth who have left home after high school and are back living with their parents has exploded in recent years. Help your child think about their future options now as this is exactly what is needed for a smooth transition into adulthood. Be an eParent®! Together with your […]
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Did you know that research has shown that kids’ eyesight improves in their teen years? Yes, they see EVERY inconsistency in what you say compared to what you do! Okay, research hasn’t proven this, but young people are especially skilled at pointing out to parents when they don’t “walk the walk.” Be an eParent®! Use online […]
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In other words, it is not always what we see that matters as our teens go out into the world. Every day your teen is confronted with making decisions that could have positive or negative outcomes. Meaningful morals, values, ethics, and belief systems are things that children look to their parents for guidance throughout their […]
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Maintaining or establishing family, cultural or religious rituals and traditions is one key to building strong families. One teen “lost it” when her mother decided not to host the annual family holiday cookie baking day. Of course, it wasn’t about the cookies, but the time she got to spend laughing and bantering with her mom […]
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If it does, maybe it’s time to put your words into action. When your child was younger, your role was to lay the foundation for his behavior. Even though your teen is now starting to take responsibility for his or her behavior, it is still important for you to model good lifestyle habits. Be an […]
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Teens were born into a digital world so they have the upper hand in being comfortable using technology but they don’t always know how to control their frustration or gloating when they lose or win a game. Teach coping skills and emotional control as you play with your teen. Be an eParent®! Model being a “good loser” […]
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Charlie Brown’s teacher was famous for her “whaaa-whaaa-whaaa” method of communication, which teens masterfully tune out. Adding a visual component to family communications helps teens be more present in phone conversations while observing healthy relationship and communication skills. Be an eParent®! Model healthy relationship skills by establishing a regular Google Hangout or Skype night with […]
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