The arrival of summer can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you have a teenager at home. With their energy, free time, and sometimes rebellious nature, it’s important to find strategies that allow you to keep your sanity intact while ensuring your teenager has a fulfilling summer break. In this blog, we’ll explore some practical tips to help you survive and thrive during this period, fostering a healthy and enjoyable environment for both you and your teen.
Every teen and family comes with its own unique challenges and cultures. Pick and choose what feels right for your family.
1. Make a Plan to Make Plans:
Many teens who have social challenges also have Executive Function difficulties. They may want to hang out with friends very badly, but the planning of an outing can feel overwhelming to them. They don’t want to have to rely on parents, but they’re not able to do it themselves which creates a bit of a quandary. Here is a link to an event planning tool that kids can use on their own, which will provide them the scaffolding they need to be able to make plans. Many of our teens might need a reminder to use the tool, however.
Other kids are fully content just to watch YouTube, Instagram reels, and play video games all day. They might not even consider the possibility of planning in person social time with friends. Creating a social plan with your teen to pre-determine how often they will see people in person can help them to remember, and to begin the planning process.
2. Family Time – Consider a Plus One:
Family time is invaluable for building strong relationships and creating lasting memories. Plan regular family activities, such as game nights, movie marathons, or outings. These shared experiences can strengthen the bond between family members and provide an opportunity for open dialogue and connection. If a teen does not want family time, decide whether or not to push it with them. They might be more agreeable if they are allowed to bring a Plus One friend with them.
3. Surprise Them with Kindness:
Relationships between teens and their parents can be rocky at times. How about surprising them with kindness? Ask your teen daughter if she would like to get her nails done and bring a friend or two – your treat.
4. Fire Pits, S’mores and More:
Make your house the fun place for teens to hang out. Host fire pit and s’mores parties, movie nights, or make-your-own (sundae, taco, pizza, etc.) nights. Play music with a party beat to fill any awkward silences. Many teens wait for others to invite them to hang out so why not be the one to do the inviting?
5. Set Clear Expectations:
Encourage open communication and involve your teen in decision-making processes to promote a sense of ownership and responsibility. Work together to establish clear boundaries and discuss responsibilities, such as chores, curfews, screen time and any household rules that need to be followed.
6. Set Limits on Video Games:
This is way easier said than done! Rather than just removing screen time, try replacing it with a trip to the beach with a friend or a few hours at an arcade. Adding in-person social time can help, but teens will likely still need limits on how many hours they can play video games. For many kids with social challenges, online friends might be the only friends they have so this should be considered when setting house rules for screens.
7. Encourage Constructive Activities:
Help your teen discover and pursue activities that engage and challenge them. Encourage them to explore new hobbies, sign up for summer programs or camps, or volunteer for community service projects. These activities can keep them occupied, enhance their skills, and provide opportunities for personal growth and increased self-esteem.
8. Foster Open Communication:
Maintaining open and honest communication with your teenager is key to understanding their needs, concerns, and desires. Take the time to listen actively to what they have to say, expressing empathy and support. Regularly engage in meaningful conversations to strengthen your bond and show that you’re there for them. If they realize that you are talking with them rather than at them, they are much more likely to be open to communicating with you. If they discuss a challenge they are having with you, ask them if they want you to provide any advice or just to listen.
9. Enroll in a Social Skills Program:
Many teens crave friends but have not been able to find other teens who share their interests or just can’t seem to make and keep a friend connection. Summer is a great time to work on these skills by enrolling in a social skills group. We are open all summer!
10. Take Care of Yourself:
Remember to prioritize your own well-being amidst the hustle and bustle of summer. Take breaks, indulge in self-care activities, and spend time doing things you enjoy. This will help you recharge, stay positive, and be better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise.
Conclusion:
Surviving the summer with a teenager at home can be a rewarding experience with the right approach. By setting clear expectations, encouraging constructive activities, fostering open communication, and surprising them with random acts of kindness, you can create a harmonious environment where both you and your teenager can thrive. Remember, taking care of yourself is equally important, so make sure to find time for self-care. Enjoy this summer break with your teen, creating lasting memories and strengthening your relationship along the way.
Note: If your teen is enrolled in our program, they will be getting this information in a social lesson during the month of June.
If your child/teen/young adult needs coaching to help them make friends, contact us to schedule a trial https://calendly.com/simplysocialkids/30min or find out more about our weekly programs by contacting us at 978-764-2758 or info@simplysocialkids.com.
