How to Survive Your Teenagers

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Susan_P_Denny]Susan P Denny
When your children are small and relatively easy to manage, you have no idea what lays ahead once they become teenagers! Most children sail through their teens with their reputations in place. However, there is a group of teens who it seems, go out of their way to be noticed and embarrass their parents.
Being the parent of 4 children, I've seen both sides of the coin and the differences were amazing. I have 2 girls and 2 boys and I can say from experience that the girls were more difficult. Once they all reached their teens they immediately "knew everything", and went to great lengths to let us know! Their opinions were to be heard no matter what! They became more unreasonable and did not like having rules imposed on them. It can be very challenging especially with your first teenager. At least with the second and subsequent teens coming along, you have a clearer understanding of what they are about.
Because I've dealt with 4 teenagers over the years, here are a few tips to help you survive with your sanity intact!
Many teenagers think it's really "cool" to wag school and will do it as often as they can. I found one of my daughter's with a friend wagging school, so I immediately got them into the car, I drove them back to school and made them apologise to the Principal. That was the last time she was absent! Make them face up to their responsibilities and they will thank you somewhere down the track.
There are a lot of problems with teenagers going out and binge drinking and taking drugs. This is not a new thing and has been going on for years, however, you need to nip it in the bud early. You cannot watch your teens 24 hours a day, but you can try to instill in them values you hold dear and hope they don't disappoint you. Explain the dangers to themselves and others if they imbibe and try to get it through to them that they must never drink/take drugs and drive. They will live with the consequences of their actions for years to come.
Teens having sex before they're mature enough to know what they're doing is another issue parents have to deal with. If you think that your daughter is having sex or has told you that she wants to, then it is your responsibility to teach her about safe sex and how to prevent pregnancy. No one wants their son or daughter to become parents before they are ready.
Teach your teens to be respectful of others, especially for the senior members in our society. Too many teenagers take advantage of the elderly, so if you have taught your children well from a young age, then you shouldn't have any problems in this area.
The teenage years can be very difficult, but if you have been a diligent parent and taught your children right from wrong at an early age, then they will come through this time safe and secure. No matter what your teenager does, always let them know how much you love them and will always be there for them to come to for advice and guidance.
Susan Denny has studied all aspects of Self Development since 1990. She has learnt from some of the best gurus in the world and is now passing on her knowledge. You can build your self confidence and be the person you've always wanted to be.
Go to http://allaboutselfconfidence.com to learn these secrets plus all the information you need to live your best life...!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Survive-Your-Teenagers&id=6227959] How to Survive Your Teenagers