Three tips for parenting teens

By Abby Glaser
​Community Advocate

​In keeping with this month’s theme of parenting, I get to talk about something that often comes with a mix of excitement and dread—the teenage years! While I wouldn’t call myself an expert, I do have plenty of experience—I'm currently parenting my last two teens out of five! If you do the math, that means I’ve had a teenager in my house for 12 years… and I’ve lived to tell the tale!

All joking aside, I truly believe teenagers get a bad rap. Yes, they have their moments, but I love this stage! They’re becoming their own person, sharing interests and activities with me, and—believe it or not—keeping me young! When I’m asked for advice on parenting teens, three key principles always come to mind:
1. Be a Safe Place to Fail
As we prepare our kids to leave the nest, mistakes and failures are inevitable. How we respond to those moments has a lasting impact on what they learn from them. Is your home a safe place to fail? Is there grace and understanding when mistakes happen? There should be. When kids know they won’t be met with harsh judgment, they’re far more likely to share their struggles with you. And when they do, it’s an opportunity to help them process, grow, and learn—rather than shutting down or hiding their failures.
2. Be Physically Present
Gone are the days of diaper changes and bedtime stories, but don’t be fooled—our teens need our presence more than ever. The foundation of a strong relationship is often built in life’s small moments—car rides, grabbing a bite before practice, or late-night chats when they suddenly feel like talking. Sure, you might get nothing more than a shrug or a two-word answer when you ask how their day was. But if you stay present, listen, and create a space where they feel comfortable, you just might find them opening up at 10 p.m., ready to share what’s really on their mind.
3. Guide Them Toward Independence
It’s natural to want to hold on to our kids while we can, but our ultimate goal is to raise capable, responsible adults. That means helping them develop independence while they’re still under our roof.  From cooking and cleaning to scheduling doctor appointments and managing finances, teens need to learn the life skills they’ll use every day as adults. The key is to introduce responsibilities gradually, allowing them to take on more as they grow. They’ll make mistakes, but it’s far better for them to learn now—with your guidance—than struggle later on their own.
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 Parenting teens is an adventure—one filled with challenges, growth, and some pretty amazing moments. By creating a safe space for them to fail, making time for connection, and equipping them with the skills they need for adulthood, we can make the most of this incredible phase. And who knows? We just might enjoy the journey along the way.

Feeling lost parenting teens? Our Parenting For Kid's Sake coaching can help! Reach out today for a free intake appointment!