My Teenager

Eliz has been gone all day, and I have no idea when she'll be home, so I called her and she was all, I don't KNOW Mom... This is a new phenomenon, this teenage nebulousness. I guess I just have to let her roam and make sure she takes her cell phone and that I know who she's with. I need to think about what the rules are and what I need her to do.

I didn't know she would be out of the house already! Anyone with teenager experience have any rule suggestions? I feel like this is one time it would be nice to consult with a husband, and I"m lacking in that department. Besides, I can do it, I can be a single parent. I trust her, but I need to lay down some ground rules.

Comments

['mouse]

Make some rules. When she violates them enforce reasonable consequences. Don't freak out and don't back down, that's why the word "reasonable" was in the sentence above.

She needs to test limits. She needs to find consistency when she does. Also, you may have to coordinate with Manny on some of this so she doesn't play "greener pastures" or play you two off against each others.

Oh, and give her plenty of free rein. The world's not nearly as awful as the media says it is, and she needs to learn to be a budding adult/good human.

Sounds easy. Real life it tougher, but do it this way and you'll thank me!

[jo]

I had a good talking to with her and told her what I needed from her. I want her to tell me when she's changing plans or going someplace new. She has to carry her cell phone with her and must use it to convey information to me. It's a different world from when I was a teenager because I never, ever told my parents where I was or what I was doing, but I want to know. At least at age 13.

[badgerbag]

No Getting in Anyone's Car is a good rule

Call me if you feel uncomfortable, to get picked up with no questions asked is another!

I would totally want to have some inkling of plans/locations / companions via texting but who knows how reliable that is.