Self Esteem in Teen

Childhood is more than how a child grows, it's about the series of stages a child goes through to get to adulthood. Going through childhood is work, a lot of work. Each stage of a child's life has different demands on the child. A new parent may not always be aware of what is considered "normal" during the various stages of their child's life. Below are a few examples of the various stages.

Age Eighteen: This is not the magical time when your child suddenly becomes an adult. Many children have not yet reached adulthood emotionally by 18. They are still struggling with who they are and what their purpose is. Your child will experience social strains at this point. Graduating from high school, leaving the safety of their home to explore college or living on their own. They may also find that their high school friends will go off into different directions, leaving them behind. Without those friendships they may feel temporarily lost. Again, this is all apart of the growing up stage. Try and be as supportive as you can. Realize that your child needs to go through this stage to mature into an adult. Guide them when possible. Do not be too critical of what they choose to do with their lives.

Ages Twelve & Thirteen: This is often a time in your child's life when they are going through many physical changes. They may gain weight, grow taller, feel clumsy and awkward. Because their body is going through a lot of physical changes it can be a difficult time for your child. Answer any questions your child may have. Do not feel embarrassed if they ask something that you're not sure of how to answer. Or maybe you don't know the answer. Children can often be very sensitive about how they look at this stage of their life. Be a supportive parent. If you are uncomfortable with answering questions, talk with your pediatrician (or let your child talk with them).

Ages Fourteen & Fifteen: This is the age when your child may have growth spurts. They can cause physical discomfort; such as headaches and joint pain. If your child complains too much of discomfort consult with your pediatrician. Sometimes there may be other reasons for the discomfort. This is also the time when their hormones will kick in. Try and make your child comfortable with what is happening to them. They may not always want to discuss the strange feelings and sensations they are having. Mostly because they don't understand them. Talking with your child about their changing body is the best way to put them at ease. There are some great books available on the teenage body. These books will cover all the physical changes and the emotional changes your child is experiencing. I would suggest you read the books first and decide which ones will best answer the questions your child may have.

Ages Sixteen & Seventeen: By the time your child reaches this stage in their life, they will begin thinking about what they want to do when they leave high school. At least many of them will. They might want to get a car (to establish more independence) or even a job. Some will wonder about college. This is often a difficult time for your teenager because they are not sure that they want to become and adult. Many teenagers will suddenly fear leaving home and becoming independent. Some will think themselves invincible. This is a time of jumbled feelings. Try to keep your teenager on the right track. Keep an open line of communication with them. This can be a time when your teenager experiences a fun and positive side of growing up or a negative and unsafe time. Too many young people get involved with reckless behavior at this time in their lives. Be aware of what your child is up to, who their friends are, and where they spend their spare time.

Wendy Greif is a mother and graduate of USF in Special Education. She has taught children with various disabilities in both South Carolina and Florida. Mrs. Greif operates an informational website for parents and caregivers of children and/or adults with special needs ( http://www.specialneedschildrenandadults.com ).

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