knew if I went right into my room, the fight that would have been, would not be.'

What About Kids, Parents, and Conflict?
One of the common stereotypes of adolescence is the rebellious, wild teen continually at odds with mum and dad. Although that extreme may be the case for some kids and this is a time of emotional ups and downs, adolescence may not be entirely to blame.

Are you a controlling parent? Do you listen to your child? Do you allow your child's opinions and tastes to differ from yours? You may find that a child who has been willing to conform to please you up until adolescence, will suddenly assert herself strongly and rebel against your control. Look closely at how much room you give your child to be an individual.

Tips for Parenting during adolescence
Looking for a roadmap to find your way through these years?

Here are some tips:
* Educate yourself to read books about adolescence. Think back on your own. Remember your struggles with acne or your  embarrassment  at  developing  early

or late. Expect some mood changes in your typically sunny child, and be prepared for more conflict as she finds her way as an individual. Parents who know what is coming can cope with it better. And the more you know, the better you can prepare your child.

* Talk to your child early enough. Talking about menstruation after they have already started means you are too late. Answer the early questions your child has about bodies, such as the differences between boys and girls. Don't overload your child with information; just answer their questions.

Do You Know Your Child?
When your child's attention to personal appearance is increasing, this is a good time to jump in with your own questions: 'Are you noticing any changes in your body? Are you sad sometimes and don't know why?' A yearly physical exam is a great time to bring up these things. A doctor can tell your pre-adolescent child and you what to expect in the next few years. The exam can serve as a jumping-off point for a good parent/child discussion. The later you wait to have this discussion, the more likely your child

Next Page