Covid 19 Survival Tips for Parents #7
Deirdre O’Sullivan is a Project Worker on CWP’s Wicklow Child and Family Project (WCFP). The WCFP provides a community based family support service in Wicklow Town and surrounding areas. The project is managed by County Wicklow Partnership and funded through TUSLA Child & Family Agency.
The Projects aims to provide services and supports that improves the quality of life for families while promoting the personal, social and educational development of children , young people and their parents always keeping the child at the forefront of our work.
Deirdre has been providing tips and ideas for families to help make families cope a little better with our covid related restrictions
Today’s survival tip is a challenge it’s the 14-17 age group, the dreaded teens. In case you’re unsure they are the ones who know everything while you know absolutely nothing. These guys will ensure that there a wings in heaven for you and while you love them dearly sometimes you may not like them. This age group will challenge you at every opportunity however… … …
- It is your responsibility to ensure their safety, the safety of your family and that of the wider community. So no pressure.
- Similar to the “tweens” this age group need factual age appropriate information.
- Limit their access to the news and social media, as currently it is very negative and not always accurate. Access to this kind of information can cause an increase in stress and anxiety (for any age group).
- Teens are usually reluctant to speak about their feeling as its mainly their peers they confide in. Remember that while your 14-17 year old may tower over you this does not make them an adult. Just be there for them.
- Acknowledge how well they are doing in very difficult circumstances and reward where necessary. An example of this could be hiring a new release on SKY, letting them pick the Friday night take away.
- Remember that while they can be a challenge this is a challenging time for them and your job is to help them navigate their way through it
Idea for Today
As restrictions have been lifted slightly you could arrange for a small gathering of friends in your garden which would enable you to monitor social distancing. Some music and food could add to the occasion and could make you the coolest parent ever (begrudgingly).