Our teenagers need certainty, or at least information. I need it, you need it, we all do.
The past 18 months have shown us what uncertainty can do to us. We've seen our kids guessing and worrying about what the next days and months would bring. This applies all year long, even during the best of times.
Guessing. To not know where they stand. To not know where you stand, especially when something important is going on in the family. Imagination takes them to very dark places.
If you haven't made a decision about something involving them, tell them that. Don't leave them in that dark place.
Help them out with basic information, even if you don't have all the answers. It's okay to say that, and reassure them that you're working on it; that you'll care for them; and you'll all make it through. The truth is usually better than them not knowing anything.
For more support and a community of moms of adolescents, click HERE to join my private FB group, Connected Moms and Teens.
Fern Weis is a certified life coach who learned that caring and good intentions are not enough in parenting. In fact, they are often the problem! Fern supports parents of teens and young adults who are going through difficult situations, including addiction recovery. She helps parents release guilt, end enabling and confidently prepare their children to thrive through life's challenges. Her articles are featured in Thrive Global, Medium, Motherly, The Teen Mentor, and Bergen County Moms.
Learn more about coaching and classes at www.fernweis.com. And then download your free guide, "Five Powerful Steps to Get Your Teen to Talk." For information on Family Recovery programs, visit www.familyrecoverypartners.com.