And if you think that teenage girl drama is the ultimate expression of dramatic angst you have never been around a teenage boy. It is teen drama week here at Chez Audet and emotions are running high. Well, and with good reason. Dragging kids through an unexpected divorce just stinks for all involved. Add the stress of a 17 year old going through college midterms (sophomore year) and trying to juggle his first job, increased responsibility at home, and general hormones…well you get the idea.

The thing to remember when your teen is having a meltdown is that they are dealing with real pain. Maybe you don’ t get it, maybe it seems silly to your intellect but it is massive to them. Here are some things I do to try to get through it unscathed:

• Don’t take it personally
• Allow them to verbalize
• Don’t try to fix it
• Reassure them of your love, acceptance, and pride
• Listen more than you talk
• Don’t assume it is a major psychological or spiritual problem but be willing to get help if it is
• Be willing to step up to the plate and bat for them if they need it. Maybe a few days off from school, chores, or other responsibilities will help them have perspective.

Luckily my kids tend to be thoughtful and drama happens one child at a time. I think they draw straws but I can’t prove it…

image:SXC

Post from: Blisstree

There Ain’t No Drama Like Teen Drama

They are actually saying “I’m bored,” I’m not just guessing here. Bay and Greg need to find some activities, some things to do with kids their own age, because while having a board game tournament is a fun idea, it does lead to statements like, “It’s just an &^%$in’ board game, Greg!”

So far, I’ve suggested calling friends for a sleepover, but “everyone” is either out of town or sick.

Taking a walk, also not met with much enthusiasm. They feel that if you are taking a walk, there better be some sort of purchase at the end of it. So there have been a couple of walks to the 7-Eleven.

What happened to a hand-in-hand walk under the stars?  Kids are so focused on consuming anymore.

Does anyone have any ideas for this young couple?  They’ve already tried swimming, movies, board games, and looking for a Summer job.

What else is there for a teenager?  Please, I’m begging you here….

Image credit: Michelle Smith

Post from: Blisstree

Please Help My Teens

I posted an article this morning about my disappointment that a vaccine to prevent HPV (human papilloma virus) which causes cervical cancer has morphed into an argument about whether girls should have sex.

The issue of whether states will require girls to be vaccinated against HPV upon entering public schools is one most states are currently debating or will debate shortly.

Many are saying it should be the parents’ right to choose whether their child should be vaccinated.

My position is that every girl, regardless of her parents, has a right to basic healthcare and that includes access to a vaccine which prevents cervical cancer.

I’d love to hear what you think about this very important issue. Please let me know in comments on So Sioux Me and/or right here at Blogfabulous.

Post from: Blisstree

HPV Vaccine, Girls’ Right to Health

So working moms and dads don’t have enough to worry about — now they have to add co-ed sleepovers to the list?

I’ve mentioned previously that we don’t have children, but here’s how I imagine this conversation taking place:

You are on a business trip, preparing for a big presentation — while you are on the plane (no less) you receive a text message from your 13-year old daughter.

• Daughter Hanna: Can I sleep over Victoria’s house tonight?
  
• You: Will the parents be there?
  
• Daughter: Yes
  
• You: Who else?
  
• Daughter: Victoria
  
• You: And who else?
  
• Daughter: Everyone
  
• You: Everyone who?
  
• Daughter: JenniferIsabellaMadisonOliviaAlexisRyanDaniel
  
• You: Oh…What?! Did You Just Say Ryan and Daniel?
  
• Daughter: Like, um yesssss.
  
• You: No Way.
  
• Daughter: Why? Don’t you trust me? Goddd! You Don’t Trust Anyone Do You!
  
• You: Yes, I trust you…but you’re too young to go to a sleep over party that includes boys and by the way, I’m on a freaking plane!

This is the trend now a-days…and not only that, some parents are making arrangements for these kids to have sleep-overs at hotels.

Can you believe?

Again, I don’t have children, so what is the right answer?

Whatever happened to 4 girls over someone’s house, watching “Creature Feature”?

Post from: Blisstree

Should Teens Be Allowed Coed Sleep-overs?