Issue link: https://fredparent.uberflip.com/i/1417700
www.FredericksburgParent.NET 17 Q: Should parents "snoop" on their teen's social media accounts and devices? And if so, what's the limit? TILLMAN: The foundation for being a purposed parent must begin from a place of trust and respect. If your child has not given you a reason to snoop, then it is not helpful to do so. Parents can avoid the temptation to snoop by doing the following: • Set guidelines and boundaries around using social media. • Speak openly and age appropriately • Draw up an agreement so that everyone is accountable • Let them know if trust is broken, there will be consequences. Q: Mental health has been a hot topic amongst teens for the past couple of years. How can parents decipher between a nor- mal moody teen and a teen that might be struggling with something more? TILLMAN: As parents, we need to know and consistently observe our children. Everyone communicates, but few people connect. When there is open communica- tion, transparency and vulnerability, it is easier to bond with teenagers. When par- ents are truly in touch with their children, they can decipher when their child is truly struggling and may need to seek profes- sional help and when they are just in a "bad" mood. Q: How can parents get past the stigma related to seeking professional mental health treatment so that they can fully sup- port their teens? TILLMAN: Parents can get past the stigma related to seeking professional help by remembering what their purpose is as a parent, which is to help children become their best selves. Throughout the many phases of life, our children need different things in different seasons. If in several of those seasons they need to seek profes- sional help, then do so. For Christian parents, understand that when you pray, God will often send a therapist. continued from pg 15 How to Super Parent Your Teen Q: What are some effective tips for helping parents assist their chil- dren as they transition from teen to young adult? Example: the high school senior who will go off to college. TILLMAN: As our children transi- tion into young adulthood, remind them of the following which you have spent a lifetime planting the seeds: • Seek God first • To thy own self be true • Dream big • Keep growing • Excellence is everything • Stay humble • Expect their best life to show up • Eliminate excuses • Remain teachable • Do what makes you come alive • Always remember you have a family that will forever be here for you. Deborah Tillman's Book Recommendations for Parents and Teens The Bible "Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill "Letters to a Young Brother" by Hill Harper "More Than Enough" by Elaine Welteroth "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens" by Stephen Covey "Parenting on Purpose" by Dr. Deborah Tillman "Daring Greatly" by Brene' Brown "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters" by Meg Meeker MD "Gamechangers (12 Strategies to guide parents and families through the many chal- lenges, problems and storms of life)" by Dr. Deborah Tillman Everyone communicates, but few people connect. deborahltillman.com