“What are some ways I can help my teen become more independent?”  That’s what I hear from parents around the country.

You have the power to encourage independence in your child… you just need to choose it and stick with it!  Here are a few things you can do as a mom or dad to foster self-reliance in your teen:

First, give them responsibility at home.  Are you still doing everything for your kid?  Stop it!

Second, set reasonable boundaries… and make them age-appropriate.

Third, let teens learn from their mistakes.  When you protect them from consequences, you’re stunting their growth!

And finally… spend more time in discussion instead of dictation.

I think you’ll discover a growing, independent kid… right in your home!

 

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