What To Do When Your Teen Makes a Mistake

Teens are going to mess up sometimes, just as adults mess up sometimes. The key is helping them learn from their mistakes. That requires staying calm AND waiting until they’re calm to unpack what happened. Make sure your teenager knows that you’re coming from a place of unconditional love, even if you’re currently frustrated with their actions. Save the lecture and help them find their own solution, skip the guilt. Instead of “I told you so!” take a moment to listen because adults make great sounding boards. Most important? Remind them there’s always a chance for forgiveness. 

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About Melissa Ford

Melissa Ford is the senior strategist at Women Online. As a writer, she covers a diverse range of topics including education, health, technology, and parenting. She is also the mother of amazing twin teens.

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