- 1). Create boundaries and rules in conjunction with your teenager. Set rules and discuss these rules with your teenager. Make sure that he understands the reasoning behind these rules. Teenagers respond well to parents who have high expectations, but also grant them a certain amount of autonomy. Be straightforward. Avoid being sneaky or manipulative. Manipulation will make your child question whether he can trust you, and he may avoid discussing important topics with you. It will also increase arguments.
- 2). Set curfews together. Setting curfews is an important way to keep your family culture intact and set boundaries for your teenager. Allow her to have a say; this will increase her feelings of independence and effectiveness and create greater respect for the new rule. Create a curfew time that is age-appropriate, but don't be afraid to compromise if necessary. Discuss consequences to breaking this rule. It is important that your teen feels that the consequences are fair and make sense.
- 3). Remind your teen of the curfew you have agreed upon before he goes out for the evening. This will help to reinforce the agreed-upon rule. You can do this by posting a reminder on the family calendar and offering a gentle verbal reminder.
Enforce consequences for broken rules, but avoid dogmatism. Allow a buffer of a few minutes, particularly if your teen is driving. This will let him be late without speeding. Discuss the reasons that he is late and allow him to explain his tardiness. Remember that everyone faces issues such as traffic jams and flat tires at times. If he continues to break the rule, remind him of the consequences and enforce them.
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