There are two things that all parents of boys know to be very true.
Number one: boys aren’t easy!
Number two: the teenage years aren’t easy!
So what does this mean? That when your sweet little boy suddenly turns into your teenage son, it can be difficult for everyone!
The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. Many parents have been on the receiving end of an angel turning into the devil seemingly overnight. Whatsmore, there are things you can actively do to make this period of your lives a whole lot easy.
One of the most important things you’re going to have to start doing for your teenage boy is being less overbearing. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you have to let go of the reins completely, and let them do whatever they want! But what it does mean is that you can do a number of far more subtle things, that while small, can make a big difference.
Naturally, their health is going to remain of great importance to you. How you keep it in check needs to be savvy. So, are you worried that their hearing isn’t great? If you book a Doctor’s appointment, don’t have it at a time when he will have to miss something. He’ll only resent it (and maybe you!) if you make him miss his weekly football match with friends for example. If you’re worried he’s spending too much time gaming, invest in some gaming glasses to protect his eyesight. You can pick some up from places like PC Gaming Corners.
Another huge health-related battle you may come across is what he eats. If you want him to eat a healthier diet, you need to be wise. You may not have total control of what he eats when at school or with friends. However, you perhaps can control what he eats at home. Set a good example by following an equally healthy diet. But don’t skip the taste!
If you crave a healthy and safe lifestyle for him, he surely craves a little privacy for himself! Teenagers go through a lot, after all; physically, mentally and emotionally. So, how can you give him that privacy and still feel like you can look after him? By giving him his own space in the home. If he asks you to knock before entering his room, knock. Show that you have that respect for him. If there isn’t room for him to do his own thing in the home, can you create that room? Maybe you could renovate the shed for him, or clear out the attic or basement? You might fear that this private space might encourage him to misbehave. But surely it is better he experiments inside your home or in the garden, rather than elsewhere?
