Being a parent of a teen is rarely easy. Maintaining a relationship with your adolescent child can be a challenge, and you may find it difficult to spend as much time together as you would like. This situation can be complicated further if your teen does not live with you. While it may not be simple to spend quality time with your teenager, it is possible to make it happen. Why not give these tips a go to help you get started and enjoy more time in each other’s company:
Sort Out a Formal Arrangement
When you and your child’s other parent are separated, it can create an extra layer of complication to your relationship. If your ex-partner is reluctant to let you see your child as much as you would like, you may not be spending as much time with your teen as you could be. In this situation, it is crucial to tread carefully and try not to harm your relationship with your child while trying to do battle with your ex.
Behaving as reasonably as possible is essential to prevent the situation from escalating. You may find the best way to take control of the issue is to do some legal research and find out how you can gain visitation rights to see your teenage children more frequently or for longer periods. Getting a formal agreement in place is an excellent way to ensure you spend more quality time with your kids.
Stick to a Regular Schedule
Do you ever find that you arrange to see your teenager, but they drop out at the last minute because they have a better offer? If you discover that your teen chooses to see their friends ahead of you, it could be wise to find a solution to this. Setting up a regular schedule of visits is an excellent way to ensure your teen keeps this time free for you to spend together. Knowing exactly when they will see you should prevent them from making other plans and letting you down.
Listen to Them
Older kids tend to grow fast, and so do their interests. This means that it can be hard to keep up with their ever-changing tastes. Listening to your teen and expressing an interest in their hobbies and tastes is essential if you want to be involved in their life. Many teens complain of never being listened to, so being the person that shows an interest will help you to maintain your relationship. Planning some quality time together where you try something related to their hobby or tastes can provide an excellent opportunity for fun.
Share a Hobby
If there is something, both you and your teen enjoy, why not make it a shared hobby? Whether it is martial arts or paddle boarding, spending time learning new skills is a great opportunity to enjoy each other’s company. If you decide to take a class, this will enable you to enjoy regular time together and strengthen your bond further.
