ParenTeen 

"Tip of the Month"

    

Most parents, even those that parent from a faith conviction, have a hard time trying to figure out the balance between being a "friend" and being a parent. Somehow this dichotomy has seeped into our mindset, thinking these are actually mutually exclusive ways to approach parenting.

But we at ParenTeen disagree - being a friend is one of the key roles of being a great parent, especially for adolescents.

To be a friend to your child communicates that you will always be there for him. Being a friend means that you are committed, regardless of circumstances or even performance, to standing beside her. Being a friend means that you will always work hard to provide an atmosphere of safety and rest, even in the darkest of days. And showing by your attitudes, behaviors and life that you are a friend will give you the best chance at staying within hugging distance of your kid even when you are far, far apart.

The best parents befriend their kids throughout their lives, hands down.