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When your teen starts focusing on their peer relationships it can be painful and confusing. But I promise you, it's not rejection.
The teenage brain is wired to focus on new relationships and to use this stage of life to begin the process of a deeper and more specific self identity.
They need us to remain calm and do everything we can to understand what they are feeling and not take it personally.
Because those peer relationships are complex and will come with their own set of pain and disappointment for our children. They need us sturdy and available as a secure base to return to when the weather out in their world gets stormy. It's not helpful if we are another storm they have to weather.
Engage with your teen by giving them airtime and genuine curiosity to share their perspectives, allowing them to feel heard and seen, which will make them respect you more and see you as an ally in their maturing process.
In this video, learn how parents can positively influence their children by taking responsibility for their own nervous system and modeling calmness, which can lead to better parenting choices and improved relationships, ultimately creating a positive impact on children's behavior and wellbeing.
In this video, you'll learn why providing your children with a safety net to navigate difficult social situations is crucial, and how to create an open and non-judgmental environment where they can trust and depend on you.