The little things you do can instill so much empowerment and confidence in your teenager.
Navigating the teenage years can be a tumultuous journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. As parents, we strive to give our children the best. We invest so much time, energy, and money into their well-being. We want our children to thrive physically, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
Wondering how you can give your teen the extra boost?
Here’s how you can help your teen not just survive, but thrive.
Believe in Your Teens
– Connect to their essence. See them for who they really are, beneath the struggles and insecurities. Your faith in their potential speaks volumes.
– Express confidence in your teens’ abilities with your words and your vibe. The words we say and the words we don’t say speak volumes.
– Have faith in their abilities and acknowledge their potential and strengths. When you express confidence in your teens’ capabilities—whether it’s in academics, hobbies, or personal growth—you send a powerful message of support. This belief instills a sense of self-worth and encourages them to take on challenges with courage and determination.
Play on Your Teens’ Strengths
Find out what makes your teens shine and give them opportunities to use their skills and talents. (E.g. Your daughter bakes well. Let her bake for the Simcha and be sure that the guests know where the talent is coming from. Your son loves to sing. Find him an opportunity to sing at the next occasion.)
Label and Validate Emotions
Teenagers often experience a whirlwind of emotions that can be overwhelming and confusing. By teaching them to identify and label their emotions, you provide them with a crucial skill for emotional regulation. Encourage open discussions about feelings without judgment or criticism. For example, instead of dismissing their frustration, help them recognize it as valid and understandable. This validation empowers them to better understand themselves and their reactions. Supporting your teens in this way will create a safe space for them to express themselves without fear of being judged or dismissed. Validation fosters trust and strengthens your relationship, showing them that their emotions matter and are worthy of attention.
Provide Tools to Process Emotions
Equipping your teen with practical tools to manage and process their emotions is essential for their well-being. Teach them ways to understand emotions and work them through. Empower them with the knowledge that they can choose a perspective that makes them feel better. In addition, encourage them to engage in activities that bring them joy and serve as outlets for emotional release.
Tools for Effective Communication
Share strategies for effective communication such as using “I” words and feeling words. Emphasize the importance of 3 Ts of time, tone, and tact in their interactions. Teaching these skills enhances their ability to communicate clearly and empathetically, fostering healthier relationships.
By implementing these strategies, you can help your teen navigate the complexities of adolescence and emerge stronger, more confident, and ready to thrive.
What if your teens seem to resist your well-meaning ideas? Know that it is normal at this stage of life. Most teens are more open to hearing ideas presented in a course or outlined in a book (my own teens included :). Take advantage of the wonderful resources that align with our haskafic values to empower your teens.
I was so excited to read Chana’s article . She is a role model of a mother- someone you want to learn from.
Her powerful coaching has changed many people’s lives, myself included.
I love these ideas. Thank you for sharing them with us.