• give them space to work out their own disagreements
• remain impartial- don't always blame the older child or jump to conclusions
• intervene if they are hurting each other
• don't allow unkind words or bullying
• think ahead for regular issues that cause disputes: take turns when possible
Question: What are the main causes of arguments between your children? Or between your only child and his/her friends?
Home is a place where teenagers learn how to build healthy relationships.
Teenagers learn to relate through observing adult relationships
If parenting together, invest in your relationship (take our marriage course!)
If parenting on your own, build the best relationship you can with the other parent, when possible
Nurture other adult friendships
Mealtimes together – teenagers learn to talk, listen, debate issues, and respect others’ views
Regular family time – having fun together ias a family helps build relationships between parents and children and between siblings (consider having a weekly “family night”)
How can you intentionally model healthy relationships with others in your life, for your teenager to learn from?