Linda's Corner: Inspiration for a Better Life

Understanding Pre-Teen Development: Paving the Way for Easier Teen Years

Linda Bjork/Marcus Aurelius Higgs Season 5 Episode 39

Parenting teenagers can be challenging, but if we understand what is normal and start teaching skills during the pre-teen years, we can maintain a positive relationship with our teenagers and prepare them for success.  Marcus Aurelius Higgs is a communication coach for parents of preteens.  You can reach Marcus at his website https://marcushiggs.com

Some of the highlights Marcus shares:
The pre-teen years are bridge stage that can change the directory of a child's whole life
Teen years are "break through" years of changing between looking inward toward family and turning outward to the world.
Understanding normal development helps parents and pre-teens better navigate the changes they experience
Trust is built over time
How to help a pre-teen or teen develop a strong sense of identity
How to overcome communication issues between parents and teens
How to help pre-teens and teens gain skills to manage their emotions
Emotions are valid, it's our behavior that we need to control
Parents model correct behavior.  You can't be what you can't see.
Autonomy supportive parenting
Do it with them, not for them.
How to teach problem solving skills
We are the stories we tell ourselves
Virtue spotting - seeing the good in them
ANTS - automatic negative thoughts
Helping parents transition from being a child's "manager" to the "guide on the side"
Teenagers don't communicate fairly - parents need to set the tone and literally be "the adult in the room"
How to create small pockets of time to listen and connect
You make time for the things that you care about - put it in your calendar
How to repair and reconnect
And more

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