The stakes feel high when you’re parenting teenagers, but you don’t have to go it alone! Today Karen is answering questions from moms facing challenges as they are navigating the teen years. From dealing with inappropriate relationships and emotional struggles to setting boundaries and having tough conversations, Karen offers encouragement to help you parent with confidence. Whether your teen is acting out or just feeling melancholic, you'll find practical wisdom and support in this candid conversation.

Episode Recap:
4:06- It’s critical to be a parent rather than a friend during the teen years.
6:48- My 16 yr old is texting inappropriate pictures with his girlfriend, what do we do?
11:49- Strategies for connecting with a melancholic teen.
16:50- My college-age child is making poor choices when it comes to grades/work ethic - what does tough love look like?
23:07- How do I firmly address drug/alcohol use concerns with young adults who aren’t living at home anymore?
26:21- My 16 year old is dealing with depression and thoughts of self-harm - help!

Scripture for Reflection: Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)
"Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."

Questions for Discussion:

1. Do you struggle with balancing being a parent versus being a friend to your teenager?
2. Think of a time your teen has made a poor choice. Did you manage your own emotions well while addressing the behavior? If not, what would it look like to have a re-do in that particular situation?
3. What role does prayer play in your parenting during the teen years? What are 3 things you can be praying for your teen right now? Write them down and hold one another accountable to praying daily for those things in our teens’ lives.

Resources:

• Check out our studio glow up on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@birdsonawiremoms
• Don’t miss the boat! Register for Soar at Sea today: https://www.soaratsea.com
• Listen to Raising Emotionally Strong Boys with David Thomas: https://wiretalk.transistor.fm/episodes/347-raising-emotionally-strong-boys-with-david-thomas