My advice

Jennifer - posted on 08/29/2009 ( 4 moms have responded )

4

16

I am a single mom who works nights as a bartender and have a 14 year old girl. After asking many other moms of teenagers how to deal with teenagers, I have come to realize there's not magical trick to it. However, this is my advice. Do what works for YOU. We're the ones working, paying the bills, providing for the home and making sure they're taken care of. Believe it or not, your happiness is important to having a happy home. So this is what I do, when she gives me attitude, especially when I punish her, I act like it doesn't bother me. Sometimes I even laugh, it helps me to not get angry. Hey they don't care how they're talking to you so why should we care how we make them feel when they're being mean to us? Just do what you can to not get angry, we don't need the added stress. Also I stick to my guns and take things away from her like her laptop, cell phone, DS, etc. Also, repeat yourself, when you say no, no is no. Than go n clean or do something else. Don't let them take your life or self away from you.

Join Circle of Moms

Sign up for Circle of Moms and be a part of this community! Membership is just one click away.

Join Circle of Moms

4 Comments

View replies by

Myriam - posted on 09/01/2009

2

20

All of your replies/advice are fantastic! I'm going to keep coming back to read them so that I don't forget all the helpful tips! I'm looking forward to trying them. I'm in shell shock over the change from them being a child to becoming a teen. Thanks you guys!

Jennifer - posted on 08/31/2009

4

16

Yes, the guilt they try to pull on you, that's so true! I play the "i'm just doing my job" card all the time. I know in the long run it'll all pay off.

Tamara - posted on 08/30/2009

10,839

65

I totally agree, I often get the 'I hate you' from mine and I always respond with Well I am doing my job right I am not here to be your friend I am here to be your mom and teach you the right way to do things.

When they start picking or what not I just smile and say I love you or thank you for your opinion. Its easier then arguing or getting angry with them.

Marlissa - posted on 08/30/2009

2

0

Good advice. Another good point is that kids sometimes try to "guilt" you into things making you feel like they won't "like" you if you tell them no or implement rules. I recently told my 15 year old son that my job is to be his mom and keep him safe and teach him how to become a responsible adult. I dont really care if he always "likes" me. I'm not here to be his friend, I have plenty of friends already. If he doesn't like me I'm okay with that. As it turns out...we are very close with an awesome line of communication.