Compiled by Esther Soon In
the middle of September this year, the Family Ministry conducted "The Parenting Teenagers Course" via Zoom. Approximately 22 parents attended this course. This course was designed by Nicky and Sila (co-worker of HTB, London, UK) and it is meant for parents who have children between the ages of 11-18 years old. The course is divided into five lessons, and is conducted via pre-recorded videos whereby the speakers, Nicky and Sila share with us effective ways of parenting teenagers. The course emphasizes that the ultimate aim of parenting is to groom our teenagers towards maturity and independence. Parents should mold their characters, and help them cultivate good values. It's necessary for parents to satisfy the teenagers' need for love by using their love language. Parents also need to learn the art of listening as well as helping the children in expressing their anger in a healthy way. The course
also talks about the importance of setting boundaries. Parents have to stand firm with important boundaries, but in other areas, there should be as few rules as possible. Furthermore, parents must be willing to negotiate and compromise with their children. Finally, the course also reminds the parents that parents are the most influential people in their children’s lives. Therefore, it's very important for parents to pass on information and good values to their children so as to enable them to make wise decisions whenever they face critical issues in their lives. There is a discussion time during each lesson for all participants to share among themselves the challenges and experiences in parenting. Parenting is an important task entrusted by God to parents. The "Parenting Teenagers Course" will equip the parents, and help the parents lay a strong foundation for their children's lives.
Sharing by the Participants Annie Chiang After attending this course, I have learned to be more empathy towards the struggles faced by the teenagers. I have also learned how to avoid conflict as much as possible, setting boundaries for teenagers and helping them in making good choices. Joseph Chan The course is interesting and practical. The discussions among the parents helped us to delve deeper on the practical aspects of each lesson. I would recommend this course to parents who have teenage children. Susan Yew The course has helped me to understand the emotion and changes that teenagers go through.
Besides that, I have also learned that we can let our "home" be a place for fun as well as a place for releasing our emotions.
Michael Ngu The course has two parts. The first part consists of a video by the parenting expert, giving us explanation and analysis. The second part is sharing and discussion among the group members. These two parts have helped me to understand the course contents better. Throughout the course, I have learned some practical parenting skills. For instance, educate the child with correct information at an appropriate time. With a purpose of having better parents-child relationships, parents can create some family atmosphere or even do some crazy stuff with the children. At the same time, parents should maintain
