Teens at Christmas - Tips for Parents

As a parent with teenagers, December can bring a unique set of challenges. Here's a guide to help you breeze through the festive season with less stress.

I now have 4 adult children, my experience when they were teens was a juggling act between three sets of parents, grandparents and making sure our teenagers were able to go to the events they wanted… not forgetting the events they were requested to attend, and the events you didn't want them to attend… I recall that teens rarely get up early, love to stay up late and often forget things unless it is important to them… it's all part of being a teenager!

Open Communication: Engage your teens in discussions about holiday plans, balancing expectations, and collaborating on schedules. Open communication builds understanding and cooperation.

Co-Create Traditions: Involve your teenagers in creating new traditions or adapting existing ones. This shared experience promotes a sense of belonging and family unity. as they get older, it is lovely to hear 'do you remember when' and it is something they did when younger… they may even start doing the same thing in their homes!

Encourage Independence: Teens value independence. Allow them to take on responsibilities like holiday shopping or decorating, building a sense of contribution.

Flexible Scheduling: Recognise that teenagers may have evolving social lives. Be flexible with schedules to accommodate their plans, minimising conflicts.

Mindful Boundaries: Set clear boundaries regarding social events, screen time, and family time. Balance autonomy with the importance of spending quality moments together.

Quality over Quantity: Focus on quality family time. Find activities that resonate with your teenagers, whether it's a movie night, game session, or outdoor adventure. Don't be afraid to explain that an elderly relative might value their visit much more than they think.

Digital Balance: Encourage a balanced approach to digital use. Suggest device-free times during family activities, promoting genuine connections.

Parent-Teen Bonding: Take advantage of the holiday spirit to strengthen your bond. Engage in shared interests, express appreciation, and encourage open conversations.

Prioritise Self-Care: Model self-care for your teenagers. Emphasise the importance of taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, and prioritising mental well-being.

Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge your teens' achievements throughout the year. Celebrating their successes contributes to a positive and supportive family environment.

Remember, December is an opportunity to create lasting memories and reinforce family bonds. By embracing open communication, building independence, and prioritising quality time, you can make the most of the festive season with your teenagers.

Finally, the teenage years come to an end - so embrace them as a stage in your childs life.