Warning: Parenting teenagers can be a thrill ride of epic proportions! It’s like trying to assemble IKEA furniture with only the Allen wrench and a vague sense of hope, or perhaps like teaching a cat to fetch – equal parts frustrating and hilarious.
But fear not, dear parents! There’s a magic formula that’ll transform your relationships with your teens and turn your home into a (relatively) peaceful kingdom.
Introducing the Power-With Parenting where Parenting meets Mentoring .
It’s Secret to Parenting Teenagers Without Losing Your Mind (Or Your Sense of Humor)
What if, there are enchanted phrases that will make your teens think you’re the coolest, most understanding parent in the land. Okay, maybe that’s a stretch, but they’ll at least make them roll their eyes less often.
Here are the magic words:
* “I’d like us to find a solution that works for everyone.” (Translation: “I don’t want to be the bad guy, but also, no, you can’t stay out till 3 am.”)
* “I’m happy when we work together.” (Translation: “I love when we don’t fight and I get to keep my sanity intact.”)
* “I feel sad when one of us is left out of decisions.” (Translation: “I feel sad when you do something stupid and I have to bail you out.”)
* “I’d like to hear how this sounds to you.” (Translation: “I want to make sure you’re not secretly plotting against me.”)
* “I’m wondering what you need right now.” (Translation: “What’s the bare minimum I need to do to get you off my back?”)
* “Would you be willing to…?” (Translation: “Please, for the love of all things good, just do this one thing for me.”)
* “Please help me understand what you have in mind.” (Translation: “Explain to me why you think this is a good idea, so I can gently guide you towards a better one.”)
* “I wonder what your thoughts are when you hear that.” (Translation: “Are you thinking what I think you’re thinking, or are you just trolling me?”)
By using these Parenting to Mentoring Expressions, you’ll create a parenting style that’s all about cooperation, mutual respect, and active listening.
It’s like being a superhero, but instead of a cape, you wear a “World’s Okayest Parent” t-shirt.
The Benefits of Mentor Parenting Approach
By embracing this approach, you’ll:
* Co-create solutions with your teen (because who doesn’t love a good brainstorming session?)
* Make decisions together (because, let’s be real, they’re going to do what they want anyway)
* Have regular family meetings to review agreements (because, why not? It’s like a fun family game night, but with fewer board games and more eye-rolling)
So, there you have it! With these magical phrases, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the most popular parent in the neighborhood (or at least, the one who gets the most eye-rolls).
Happy MENTORING!