If you have questions about an assignment, ask for help. Your parents will be happy that you’re showing initiative. Understand homework policies. It’s important to discuss with your parents any questions you have pertaining to their homework policy. Be able to answer questions about location, time, if friends can come over, etc. Here are some questions to get you started[1] X Research source : Time: What time should homework be started and how late is too late to begin working on it? Are breaks allowed? Place: Where can homework be done and is the TV or music allowed to be on while doing homework? People: Can friends come over to do homework?
Turn off your phone at school. Though it’s already a rule at most schools, make sure your phone is off during the day. When it comes to social media; there are some significant obstacles for both parents and teenagers. While social media can be beneficial, it has also proven to have some horrible costs. [2] X Research source Part of doing well in school is learning to get along with your peers. Using social media in a way, which negatively impacts another person at school is something you want to avoid.
Many schools already have strict policies in place to prevent students from skipping school, so make sure you’re following the rules. Whether it’s showing up on time or not leaving early, it’s important to be present at school.
It’s important to understand both the rules and the consequences for not following them. If you’re still not seeing eye to eye on your curfew ask your parents to consider two different curfews - one for school nights and a slightly later one for weekends. [3] X Research source Remember that your parents are looking out for your safety. If you need further clarification as to why they have a curfew in place, politely ask them to explain it. Show up on time, if not a few minutes early. If you aren’t going to be back in time due to an unexpected issue or something beyond your control, let your parents know. Give them an estimated time of arrival if you are going to be late and don’t wait until the minute before you’re due home to make the call. Be honest. Don’t make up excuses as to why you’re not home if you’re just trying to spend more time with your friends. Your parents will catch on!
The question of who has ownership of a teenager’s room has long divided parents and teenagers. [4] X Research source It’s time to sort this matter out with your parents by understanding their view of your room. How often should it be cleaned? Is some clutter allowed? Understand the timeline for completing your chores. If you’re asked to care for the family pets, for example, discuss how often they need to be fed and walked. In the event you’re too busy with school work or after school activities, you should find out if there is any flexibility when it comes to your chores. If so, know who should take over your responsibilities and how far in advance you should ask for help. Do your chores without being asked. Whether it’s cleaning your room before mom asks or refilling the dog’s food bowl before dad mentions it, start doing your chores without being asked. It might help to add chores to your afternoon routine. You could start by doing your homework and once the assignments are complete, you could work on your chores for a half hour or so. That will still give you plenty of time at night, plus it will make your parents happy!
Regardless of whether it’s taking off your shoes in the house or sitting down to eat at 6:00 PM every night; don’t feel uncomfortable about asking friends to follow the rules when they are over. Your parents will greatly appreciate you taking the lead.
You should discuss when and where it’s appropriate to entertain your significant other at home. Discuss what kinds of dates are appropriate for your age.
Dinner provides families with the opportunity to share stories, relax and recharge with the goal of developing a sense of who you are as a family. [6] X Research source Don’t skip meals in favor of hanging out with your friends. They can wait the extra hour to see you.
Put the phone down, turn off your music and really spend time with your family.
Spending time together helps to foster open dialogue and better communication. The more time you spend together, the easier you’ll find it to converse with your parents. You’ll also create some great memories together that you can talk about for years to come.
There are plenty of ways to make money as a teenager. Having financial independence will help you to feel better about yourself.
Keep it within the confines of the law and the house rules. For example, if you love to travel don’t take it upon yourself to go on a road trip without permission. Try planning a weekend excursion with your family instead. If you’re in college, you could sign up for the study abroad program. For high school aged kids, if you enjoy theatre, try signing up for school plays. Perhaps you enjoy drawing, so talk with your parents about adding an extra art class to your schedule.
