Wellbeing

Parenting Teens

Parenting a teenager can be both incredibly rewarding and, at times, incredibly challenging.

As young people grow and develop their independence, parents can find themselves navigating changing relationships, strong emotions, increased independence, friendship and peer pressures, school expectations, technology and social media, and sometimes behaviours or situations that feel difficult to understand.

It is completely normal to sometimes wonder, “Am I getting this right?”

Every young person is different, and there is no single approach to parenting that works for every family. What works for one child may not work for another, and the strategies that worked when your child was younger may need to change as they become a teenager. Parenting a teen is a learned skill — and like any skill, we can continue to develop our knowledge, confidence and strategies along the way.

Seeking support can be a really positive step. You don't need to wait until things become overwhelming before reaching out. Parenting programs, such as those included here, can provide practical strategies, new perspectives and reassurance, while helping parents better understand what is happening for their young person and strengthen their relationship.

There are a range of programs available next term including Circle of Security, Tuning Into Kids, Tuning Into Teens, and Dads Tuning Into Kids. These programs focus on areas such as understanding children's and teenagers' emotions, strengthening relationships, responding to challenging behaviour, building emotional connection and developing practical parenting strategies.

If you would like more individualised support or counselling, you can contact The Orange Door Box Hill on 1800 354 322 or Doncare in Doncaster on 9856 1500.