Key Takeaways:

• Independence is Key: Teenagers naturally drift away from parents as they seek independence, making this a crucial but challenging time for both.
• Adaptability is Essential: Parents must adapt to their teen’s rapidly changing behaviors and needs, understanding their own frustrations.
• Balancing Control and Connection: It is important to maintain connection over controlling every aspect of a teen's life, emphasizing trust and openness.
• Acknowledging Grief and Growth: Parents can acknowledge their feelings of loss and foreboding while celebrating the new person their teen is becoming.
• Communication is Paramount: Establish a communication style that respects the evolving needs of teens, guiding them without dictating.

Notable Quotes:

• "It's hard because you care. It's hard because you love them."
• "The goal shifts from being involved in everything really just to thinking in your mind. I'm available for anything that they need."
• "If parenting your teen feels hard, it doesn't necessarily mean that something's wrong."
• "Give ourselves permission to feel those things that worry, that sadness, that excitement."
• "Influence comes through connection, conversations, trust."

Click here to contact Collett or ask her a question or Click here to contact the Raising Teens team.

Collett is a psychologist, qualified teacher, speaker, and internationally published author, with 25 years' experience working in private and public schools, as well as in private practice.

Visit Raising Teens for more resources, click here for Collett's books, or join the discussion on Facebook.

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