June, 2008
by Shannon K. Spellman, M.S.W.
What do you do for fun with your adolescents in the summer? Don't assume teens only want to have fun with their friends. It is normal for them to want more and more time with peers and less and less time with parents. But they still want to be able to have fun with their parents as well. You just have to involve them in finding things that will peak their interest.
Adolescents may attempt to be uncooperative in this process. In really tough cases, it's okay to tell them they can invite a friend to go along. Do whatever it takes and just make it a priority to have some family fun time that they are a part of. You can start with a brainstorming session to generate alternatives of things to do. Even if they come up with totally financially unrealistic ideas, put them on the list as alternatives so they feel you are honoring their creativity. Then gently suggest some additional more realistic ideas that fit within your budget.
Strive to do this on a regular basis. When parenting adolescents is all work, it's not enjoyable for you or for them. Lighten up and have some fun with your kids. This will plant seeds of positive times that you can hold dear when things get tough.
©2008. Hiding Star Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.
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