Some do's and don't for the parents for teens

Work and Family Life Jun 2007

We can't help teens avoid all mistakes, nor should we try. But we can help them work through disappointments, reflect on bad decisions, and know how it feels to make wrong choices.
These do's and don't may be helpful:

The Do's..
Know what is normal teen behavior and what is not, so you know what to look out for.
Set clear rules for behavior and specific consequences for noncompliance, typically the loss of privileges.
Give teens household chores so they don't become rent-free boarders.
Have the courage to talk with them about the tough topics: sex, alcohol, drugs. Don't lecture. Listen and express your values clearly.
Have a zero-tolerance policy for tobacco, alcohol and drug use.Maintain a sense of humor. Let teenagers know that you love and like them.

The Don't'...
Patience is good, but don't become a doormat for disrespectful behavior.
Don't get dragged into power struggles. If teens choose not to comply with your rules, they will have to accept the consequences.
Don't try to outshout your teen. Say,"When you're ready to talk about this without yelling, let me know. But we need to talk be/ore you go out."
Don't put teens down or call them names.This damages the parent-teen connection, the lifeline through the years.