Tag Along With Your Teen

Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.

Psalm 127:3

THE PSALMIST IS RIGHT: Children are a gift, a reward, from the Lord. And though sometimes you might want to disagree, they are also a blessing—even during the teen years. Maybe your teenagers are pushing you away right now, being disrespectful, and spending more time with their friends than with you and the rest of the family. Even so, research shows that teens benefit from hanging out with their parents as much—or more—than younger children do. So figure out a way to spend time with your teen.

It isn’t as important what you do, as long as you’re doing it together. If your teens are interested in music, visit a music store or go to a concert together. If your teens are more into sports, go to a game or shop for a piece of equipment they need.

As fathers, we know it may take some work to reap the reward that God intended children to be in our lives. Talk with your teens. Invite them to be honest and open with you. Treat them as the valuable people they are, as people made in God’s image. Show them kindness and love. Set healthy boundaries, but forgive them when their emotions get the best of them. Try not to treat every conversation as a chance to lecture. And pray with them.

By keeping your relationship with your kids strong during the teen years, you’ll help them navigate this turbulent time and become the people God wants them to be. It is well worth the effort.

BOTTOM LINE

Don’t let your teens push you away. Push back by giving them your time, a listening ear, and your love.

Moment of Strength: Colossians 3:12-14