Tips and Advice on Parenting Teens

When it comes to chitchat, teenagers often have a lot to say. Usually all that's needed is something to spark the conversation. This list provides 120+ conversation starters that are sure to inspire great discussions with the teen in your life!

This article explains why it's so common for teens to lack confidence and gives suggestions to boost your self-esteem.

As our kids turn into teens, it can feel as if the childhood connections we formed with them all but disappeared overnight. And, understandably, many parents grieve that loss. But adolescence isn’t the end of an old relationship — it’s the beginning of a new one.

Self-absorption, negativity, an inability to plan ahead...these are characteristics of teens that can drive moms and dads nutty. When parents appreciate that their kids' brains are still developing, though, and this behavior is normal, they can relax, stop worrying, and sail through the teen years.

New research shows that the brain is still developing in teenagers. The implications of this are discussed, along with some tips for good communication during the teenage years.

It is important to have cell phone rules for kids. Your family cell phone policy should include limits on cell phones at night and at school, and you should monitor cell phone contacts for young kids.

Concentrate on what's important when talking with teenagers, not things they don't need to know. Common mistakes parents make with their teens.

Your child has just come out to you. Now what? These days, more and more parents are being faced with homosexuality in their children as it becomes more accepted by society. Tips on how to respond.

Car insurance for teen drivers cost more since accidents by teenage drivers are the number one cause of death among teens. Tips to help decide if your teenager is ready to drive are given.

Although a lot of media attention is given to marijuana or other illicit drug use, alcohol remains the number one drug of choice for many teens despite the long-term dangers.

Many parents report back talk as a behavior of concern. Learn what really constitutes back talk and how to encourage your child to express themselves in a respectful, healthy way.

Teenagers are at one of the most difficult times in their lives, and unfortunately, parents have to deal with the worst of it, but there are things you can do to minimize the damage to your long-term relationship.

Four basic, but important, steps I took prior to hitting the road with my son.

The adolescent brain is growing and creating new pathways for thoughts. The brain is changing throughout adolescence, with some brain cells being eliminated and other pathways maturing. Stress and diet can play a role in the devolopment of the brain. This article spells out the process.

A parent lets go of her child during stages of child development, allowing the child to grow up and eventually become independent. This can be more difficult for the parent than it is for the child.

List of potential sources of conflict between teens and parents. These are situations and disagreements that may lead to arguments and fighting, but do not have to damage relationships.