PARENT PERSPECTIVE
Preparing
H
By Beth Simek
igh school is the time for growth and maturity; but get ready because it’s also the time for awkwardness, mistakes, and growing pains. For many parents, the beginning of high school is a reminder that, all too soon, your little one will be grown up and leaving the nest. Fear not though as you still have four more years to build upon your relationship with your teen and set a positive example for when they become an adult. You have the opportunity to be quite a helpful resource for your teenager during this tumultuous time (although this isn’t to say it’s easy dealing with a teenager — trust me, I know, it isn’t). Though it may feel frustrating and overwhelming at times, especially if this is your first time having a child in high school, high school parenting is all about trial and error for both of you. With these tips, I am sure you
38 APRIL 2020
hool
nsition to high sc
ur child’s tra as a parent for yo
will find the journey from elementary to high school parent a lot smoother.
Respect Privacy and Establish Boundaries
It is a good idea to establish clear rules before high school begins. Putting these rules into practice before school begins helps work out any kinks or misunderstandings that can sometimes occur as teens test their boundaries. While these rules will be different for every family, you should certainly establish some cut-and-dry rules for your teen’s safety (like never driving while intoxicated or getting in the car with someone who is intoxicated). High school means new frontiers socially, and you might encounter sensitive issues with your teen that you haven’t before. Issues of peer pressure as well as sex, drugs, vaping, and drinking may come up, and you should be prepared to talk to your teen as well as establish clear expectations. These issues might be especially pertinent around certain high school events like sporting events, homecoming, or prom. Try to have an open dialogue and allow your teen to ask any questions they may have. If you feel comfortable, you might also talk about your own experiences and mistakes in order to let them know that you, too, are fallible. The information you share can ensure they aren’t listening to misinformation from unreliable sources—like other teens. Be sure to respect your teen’s privacy the best you can though obviously, there are exceptions if you are directly worried for their safety or another person’s safety.
