Hi – Sue Blaney here with your Parenting Tip from Parenting Teens Info.com

My tip this week is
Keep an Open Mind…“Different” Doesn’t Mean “Bad” >>Listen

Parents yesterday at several workshops I ran lamented their kids’ texting and communication habits. They complained that kids don’t call each other anymore to make plans, they just text. These parents are worried about their kids’ face-to-face communication abilities, and wonder if they will know how to develop deep personal relationships.

Our parents were worried about us, too, back in our day. What was it in your teens that your parents worried about? Mine didn’t like the psychedelic bellbottoms, and demonstrations, but I’m probably aging myself here. When teenagers behave differently than their parents, parents worry. But this is what teens are supposed to do! Let’s keep this in perspective.

No one will argue that there are fundamental changes in the way our digital world is changing the way people communicate. This generation of teenagers is the first that will go from cradle to grave in a digital world; they are called “digital natives.” Although the jury is out as to what impact this will have on the way they learn and process information in the long run, it would be wrong to jump to the conclusion that these changes are all bad. It is different than the world in which we were raised…but there is much that is good, even better now. And change gives rise to new norms and customs. Have you noticed, for instance, that kids often don’t leave phone messages? Their rationale is their friend will see they missed the call and will call back when they can. If texting is helpful in making plans, why not? It may be more efficient!

Just because kids text and communicate online more than their parents does not mean that they are unable or unequipped to have deep personal relationships. What really matters is how your teen is doing. Does he have close friends? You may need to guide your teen and encourage more personal interactions. And here are a couple of guidelines: Too much of anything is probably bad for you; teens need your teaching and guidance, and in all things, balance is a good goal.

Parents, develop and nurture an open mind about the new communication methods your kids are using. Of course if your kids are texting in such a way that it is rude, thoughtless or inappropriate, teach them good manners. But don’t rush to judgment. Adopt a more open attitude. Ask questions and see what you can learn.

One thing you can count on is the world will keep turning and there are more changes around the corner.

And please visit www.PleaseStoptheRollercoaster.com for a recent discussion about this topic and more.

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Til next time…I'm Sue Blaney