As your children become teenagers, they may begin to pull away from you. This is natural, of course, but can still be rather painful for parents. Teenagers will want to spend more and more time with their friends, and they may spend a lot of their time at home just hanging out in their rooms. While this is completely normal, there are some things you can do to help retain the family bond between you and your teenager.
Although your child may not show it, she still needs time with you. Because she may not initiate that time, however, it will be up to you to find ways to spend time with her. One of the most important things you can do is show an interest in her extracurricular activities and hobbies. Try to attend as many school functions such as sporting events, band or chorus concerts, drama productions, and any other activities that she takes part in. Just knowing you are there will make a difference to her, whether or not she shows it.
Try to cultivate activities that you can share with your teenager. Make special plans to go see a new movie with her. Then, after the movie, stop at a local restaurant for a special dessert and discuss the movie. If you know of a certain book she might like to read, buy one for you and one for her. As you read the novel, you can discuss certain parts of it with her over dinner.
Maybe your teenage son has a passion for video games. Although you may feel clueless when it comes to the ins and outs of playing a particular game, try to sit down with him while he plays. Ask him a few questions about the game. Ask him if he’d like you to play the game with him. Even if you aren’t very adept at playing, you can spend time doing something with him that he enjoys.
Try to plan special weekend activities. Families today are so busy, running in several different directions. It is important to plan time together, even if it is only for a few hours. Pack a picnic and take off for a new park. Even though he may protest, once you get there, you may find that he is enjoying the time he spends with you. Throw in a Frisbee or a football when you pack your lunch. If you know a good fishing hole, invite your teen for a little fishing excursion. Don’t worry if you don’t catch anything. The important part of the outing is to spend time together.
Plan a hiking trip to a local mountain or forest. You might want to purchase a GPS (Global Positioning System) device. Do a search on the Internet for GPS scavenger hunts. They are becoming more popular all over the country. Most teens love a good treasure hunt, and you can also enjoy time together.
Teenagers usually won’t argue with you if you want to take them shopping. After all, who can argue with someone who wants to spend money! Even if you don’t have a lot of money to spend, it is fun to window shop. Try to find some unusual shops that you don’t usually frequent.
Let your teen plan a few outings. If she doesn’t know what to plan, give her a few choices, and then let her make the decision. Are there museums and art exhibits in your town? Try to find local festivals to attend. If you aren’t sure, check with the city’s chamber of commerce.
If your local church or recreation center has recreational teams, such as softball, football, baseball, or soccer, find out if you and your teen can join together. Many bowling alleys have bowling leagues. You and your child might enjoy joining one of these leagues. If you and your family are trying to get into better shape, plan an evening walk. You can stroll around your neighborhood, visit the local track, or visit an area park with walking paths.
Maybe you live in an area where you can own horses. You can also trail ride on dirt bikes or four wheelers. Some teenagers love raising livestock, and you and your teen could raise something together, such as a sheep, goat, or even a rabbit.
Once you’ve thought about it, you should find plenty of activities to share with your teenager. It really doesn’t matter what you do, just as long as you are spending time together.
