Make Your Home Preteen-Friendly (page 3)

The preteen and early teen years are difficult ones for kids and for parents. As a middle school counselor, I counsel adolescents daily about these age-related struggles and challenges. The good news is that most kids do make it through adolescence with little or no permanent scars. Here are some basics for parents to keep in mind for creating a home environment that is both safe and engaging for their eleven to fifteen year olds.

Communication

Some preteens, particularly boys, are not used to being invited to participate in conversation. It's crucial that parents ask their kids to tell them about what they did in school and after school. Adults should ask for and validate the preteen's opinions. Parents may need to be persistent without nagging and expect more than one-word responses. Sometimes it helps to begin a conversation with a topic that is sure to interest your son or daughter such as fashion, sports, or music. Another idea is to plan at least one activity a month with your child of his or her choosing where talking and listening can occur, perhaps the mall or a baseball game. Even if parents hope their 12-year-old changes his or her mind about becoming a model, rock star or professional wrestler, parents need to listen without judgment to their kids hopes and ideas.

We, parents, need to talk to our kids about the dangers of substance abuse and teenage sex. It can be harmful to assume they have all the facts and understand the consequences of experimentation. It is likely, before kids finish eighth grade, they will be forced to make choices with potential serious consequences. It's only natural that preteens will make some mistakes on their own, rather than listen to words of wisdom from their parents and teachers. Parents need to let their kids know they can and should come to them no matter what problem they may be experiencing. Even kids from the most stable homes need to be reminded of this.

Homework

Speaking as an educator, I can assure parents that most middle school students will be assigned some homework to do nightly. Parents should ask preteens about their homework and provide support and a conducive environment for studying. Moms and dads should find a respectable balance between taking over and doing their preteens' homework for them and not having a clue as to what their kids are studying.

It's helpful to set up a spot and time in your home for homework doing. This area should be at a well lit, quiet desk or table. Parents can assist in keeping a homework area available so preteens won't find preparing for studying such a daunting task. A nightly routine will encourage responsibility and study habits. It also reinforces your commitment to your child's education especially if you involve your child in setting up the routine. The preteen may have some requests from you and his or her siblings during that time. Parents and preteens can work together in making this time sacred to your family and your household.

If the preteen claims never to have homework, parents should take that as a hint to call to arrange a conference with his or her teachers and not wait for the next report card even if the child has historically been a good student.