Vermont Dads Group

TIPS FOR DADS AND FATHER FIGURES

(From The Fathering Project)

As our kids grow into teenagers, it's normal for them to want to establish their own independence and spend more time with friends.​​​​​​ However, it's important during this time we try our best to maintain a family connection, which is crucial for our teenager's emotional stability and overall well-being.

Teenagers who have warm, consistent relationships with their parents have higher self-esteem, less depression and anxiety, and more positive social interactions. So, it's important to take an active interest in our teen’s lives, keep communication open, and build mutual trust and respect.

Remember, our teens are going through a lot of changes and one of the biggest challenges for them is balancing their desire for independence with maintaining family connection.

As they become busier, it may be harder to find moments to connect, but it's crucial to take deliberate action where possible to find moments to stay connected.

​​​​​​                                                                            Top Tips

1. Participate in activities as a family. Creating lasting memories of fun times is crucial for family connection.  

2. ​​​​​​Make the most of time in the car. Drive them to and from friends’ houses or outings and spend the travel catching up. When they are learning to drive, supervise their driving practice. 

3. Take an interest in their friends. This will give you valuable insight into how they are coping socially and emotionally, as well as connect you to the young people that are most important to your child. 

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                                                               Dad Joke of the Week

I stopped by a stand that said lobster tails $2. I paid my $2 and the guy said "Once upon a time there was this lobster..."