Feeling like you are losing your connection with the teen in your life? Sometimes the answer is simpler then we think.
With everything that is going on in a bustling teen household the last thing either of you need is another complicated dynamic to your relationship. Keeping this in mind here are some simple bonding tips.
Make spending time together part of the routine.
Sometimes it is hard to find time to get together. A private dinner for two is a great way to create a relaxed one-to-one environment. This gives the opportunity for each person to share what is going on in his or her lives. Creating a situation that is not as serious as sitting down and having a private conversation, yet you can convey to each other the same things. Depending on what's happening in you household i.e. lots of tension, perhaps you might need to invite a third party. If so invite a person that is someone you both feel comfortable around. Since dinner is something both of you have every day it's just a matter of picking a night to set a side for the two of you.
Take a road trip
Road trips can create some fun memories! You don't have to go far or be gone for very long to have an exciting time. Getting away from the everyday routine and planning something out of the ordinary gives the two of you something to get excited about. If you suggest the road trip let your teen be involved by letting them plan the activities. Plan the trip at least a month ahead of time so that you can work it into your schedules. Spur-of-the-moment road trips are not recommended. The trip could start off wrong if your teen had other plans with friends.
Include him/her in you day
By this I mean share some of the things that are going on in your life. Approaching your young adult in a casual adult manor can mean a lot to your teenager. You don't have to pick very intimate or serious topics to discuss. For instance, maybe you where thinking of going back to college perhaps your son or daughter could give you pointers. Fostering a respectful low stress environment that feels accepting is the key to creating a sense of closeness. Make a point of asking how their day went. If they feel like talking then let them, but if they don't want to talk then do not be pushy.
Learn a new activity together.
Pick a common interest that you share with your teenager and learn more about it together. Having something in common will give both of you something to talk about. Setting aside time to do it gives each person something to look forward to doing. While learning and doing the activity together can create fond memories and strengthen the bond for each person.
During the teen years it can be especially difficult to find ways to bond. Your child is going through some serious changes which may make them unapproachable. The main important part of bonding is to create an accepting respectful environment which both of you can feel connected and make some fun memories together.
