When our kids are little, and we’re in the midst of sleepless nights and teething, we long for the teenage years. We look forward to them doing more for themselves and needing us less. But, when the time comes, it’s possibly even more stressful than the baby days. We know that we need to let them go. We know that by helping them to become more independent and letting them spend more time alone with their friends, or going to events further from home, we can ensure they keep themselves safe. But we don’t want to. We want to keep them home where we can see them. We’re terrified every time they are out and worrying about all of the things that could happen.
Your teenager isn’t a child anymore. Soon, they’ll be walking to school, getting a part-time job, or heading off to college. They need to be ready, and by supporting their independence, instead of discouraging it, you can help to prepare them.
Help Them to Buy a Car
Having your own transport is one of the first big steps into a more independent and self-sufficient life. When your teen has a car, they can go out without needing their parents, they can look for a part-time job further from home, and they can travel to school if they like a college a little further afield. But cars are expensive, and few teens can afford it alone.
While a car is an expense, it’s also an investment, and thanks to Albuquerque, NM – Fast Money Car Title Loans, owning a car can give you (or your teen) access to fast cash if you need it.
Give Them the Tools That They Need to Stay Safe
When it comes to their car, make sure they’ve had professional lessons, and are confident on the road before giving them the keys. But, away from that, there are other things that you can do to help, and you may want to start a little younger.
As soon as your child wants to start walking to school or spending time out with friends, consider a smartphone so that they can keep in touch with you easily, and program it with any numbers that they may need. Make sure they know who to turn to if they need help, and which safe spaces they can go to. Make sure they know how to get home, where to catch buses and anything else that could help.
Show an Interest in Their Life
You may feel very nervous about their growing independence, but try not to show it. If you seem worried, they won’t want to confide in you. Instead, show an interest. Let them talk to you about what they are doing, who their friends are and how they feel. Ask questions, but don’t make a big drama over things. Just let them talk, and they’ll be much more likely to tell you if they are worried about something.
All of our children, at some point, start to seek independence. It’s part of growing up, and as much as you might hate the idea, it is something that you should encourage. They will test their boundaries with or without you, but at least this way, you can help to prepare them.