One of the most difficult transitions for parents, as our children grow into adolescents and young adults, is releasing some control. If we aren’t careful, our hovering and maneuvering can turn into some not-so-nice parenting practices -the Helicopter Parent and the Bulldozer Parent!
In this episode we talk about some ways to evaluate and avoid these dangerous temptations:
- Allow for Failure. We have to leave some natural obstacles and difficulties for our children to learn from and should always ask what our child will gain from us not getting involved.
- Teach them to Advocate for Themselves. It’s often easier to do it ourselves, but we have to guide them on how to initiate and navigate hard conversations.
- See Difficulties in Life as Opportunities. It’s okay for our children to be a little uncomfortable or stressed. Make a culture of having good evaluations and conversations surrounding the challenges of life.
It will often take more effort for us to guide our adolescents and young adults through difficulties than for us to handle it ourselves…but the benefits can last a lifetime! Be Abnormal!