Parenting teens is hard! In this article you’ll learn parenting tips for teenagers. Effective communication is key and changes with every phase of our kids development.

Having teens challenges you on so many deep levels. It is tough, yet can be incredibly rewarding. They have this push-pull dynamic where they want to assert their growing independence and new found freedoms, yet still need you. They can drive, hold down a job, and open a bank account with help, but still need you for money, guidance, and time with you. Plus, you now worry about their expanding freedom with driving, staying out later, and remembering all the things you taught them about safety, drugs, alcohol, and sex.

As a clinical psychologist who specializes in working with teens, most are talking about it, experimenting, and trying alcohol way before their parents think it is happening. Here is the thing, kids are going to hear and/or talk about it with peers and friends. Would you want to help control the narrative, provide accurate information, and guide your child in making healthier choices? What are the consequences of binge drinking in teens? What are the signs your teen is drinking? What are the facts? How can I help my teen?