Here are a few tips to Handle your Teen:

• Although your teen seems to be moving away from you, she still needs your attention but in different ways – be available when she needs you – to chat, to pour out her heart, to argue over a controversy, to discuss things that are important to her.
• Have clear and open conversations about friendships, relationships, sexual health, and behavior. Only then will she seek your support and advice when she is in a dilemma or under pressure from friends.
• Her emotions and mood swings are normal so don’t take them personally. Just know that it’s all a part of her growing up
• Allow her to experiment with how she likes to look, even though it changes every few days. It’s her way of discovering what works for her and what doesn’t.
• Talk about your family values by relating family stories and experiences. Lectures and advice will only fall on deaf ears.
• Get to know her friends, but not to pry and be inquisitive. Be genuinely interested in them. Only then will she feel comfortable bringing them home.
• Do not try to break a friendship you do not approve of. Instead, express your concerns about the friend and have a discussion on how she can help you.
• Teens will make a few mistakes. How you handle them can make or break her confidence. Turn mistakes into learning opportunities – help her think about what went wrong, what she could have done differently that would have been better for her.
• Watch over your teen carefully but subtly. You must be able to notice even subtle changes in her. Make a mental note of them. If your teen seems to be troubled or disturbed let her know that you notice it and offer to help.
• Studies are sometimes neglected because teens are so busy trying to discover new things about themselves. But banning them from doing their favorite activities is not the answer. Instead, bring it to their notice and ask what you could do to help.
• Screentime is a huge worry for most parents of teens. Have family agreements about screen time for your teen and for yourself too. Educate yourself about cybersecurity and risks and talk to your teen about it.

Teens prove to be capable and responsible when we respect their opinions and involve them in family decisions. But given their need for adventure they will also require frequent reminders of safe boundaries, and your help to stay. Above all, make sure your teen gets enough sleep, nutritious food, adequate exercise, and pursues an interest. Be supportive no matter what happens. We are the only ones they must turn to when they can’t manage the challenges of growing up.