Part of growing up is the willingness to take on more responsibility. For your teen, building trust is key to becoming more independent. As your teen advances into adulthood, they’ll begin to notice ways they can build trust by finding opportunities to contribute to their home, school and neighborhood.
Here are just a few things your teen might do to show you they can handle more responsibility.
School Performance
School is an excellent place for teens to start contributing to their reputation of being trustworthy. By showing you that they take your education personally, your teen will show you that they have sound judgment. Bringing home good grades, being active in extra school activities, and having a great attendance record demonstrate that your teen is ready to take on more responsibility. Help them to set educational goals that you know they can achieve with success.
Driving Habits
One of the biggest steps toward your teen gaining independence is having a driver’s license. With driving comes the huge commitment to concentrate on the road, maintain the personal safety of other drivers, and return the car safely. It’s important for your teen to stay focused while driving and avoid distracted driving behavior. This not only keeps them safe but also shows you as a parent that they are responsible. Observing good safety habits such as wearing your seat belt, not using their cell phone while driving, and always being sober behind the wheel further shows their responsibility. Driving is a serious responsibility, so keep your mind and eyes on the road.
Completing Chores
While doing chores probably isn’t on the top of any teen’s list of things they want to do, completing their chores is a great way to show their responsibility. Not only is completing chores something that they will have to do on their own when they move out, but it builds character. Doing so provides a way for your teen to ease into the routines of a good work ethic.
Being smart about their choices is a way for teens to prove to you as a parent that they are ready for more independence. Following ideas about responsible behavior will help guide them into the challenges of adulthood. Praise your teen for their efforts and they will continue to be responsible and grow in character.
If you need help motivating your teen to be responsible, try the Homey App today!