Public Health
Survey

Communication
Positive communication between parents and teenagers can sometimes be difficult.  Teens are seeking both independence and support at this stage in their life.  Peer pressure, body changes and other stressors can often make communication tough.  Take time to stress the positive about your teen, rather than the negative.  Above all, the message needs to come from your heart.  Although teens do not always agree with parent messages, they do consider them.  For effective communication, parents need to remember to get the facts, encourage questions, and most important ... LISTEN....read more

Guidance
Parents need to help their teenager make wise decisions.  Work as a team by setting boundaries and expectations together.  The best life lesson for your teen is to learn that they have to live with the consequences of their behaviours.  Monitor your teen’s behaviour and activities.  Sometimes you may need to get involved in order to protect them.  Consistency is important when providing guidance.  The ability to forgive one another will help parents and teens through this challenging time...read more

Relationships
It is always important to be a role model.  Actions speak louder than words!  Developing problem solving techniques is very important for teens.  Examine your own relationship values and set clear expectations.  Set dating guidelines together that are realistic.  Help your teen’s friends to feel comfortable within your home.  Talk about how drugs and alcohol can affect relationships.  Parents and teens can grow closer while developing relationship skills...read more