Home to Hangout

6 Steps to a Teen-friendly Home

By Tamekia Reece

Brown Conroy agrees and says teens should have time that's sacred and uninterrupted by siblings. "Just as adults enjoy 'adult time' with friends, teens are entering into the same dynamic of enjoying relationships on a higher level," she says. A good idea is to arrange for one parent or a friend to take the younger kids to the zoo or out to a movie when your teen is having friends over. This not only keeps the younger ones occupied, it gives teens time off.

Probably one of the most important things you can do is to show your teen and his friends that you respect them. Be sure to smile and as Isaacs Kohl says, "act welcoming even when they come in dirty from playing football or wet from being out in the rain."

Some teens don't have attentive parents, so take time to listen to their social and academic experiences. "Having someone to talk to, in addition to their parents, can be crucial," she says. "Your listening gives them a chance to clarify their thoughts and feelings."

While it's important to be a nurturing person who they can spill their guts to, Isaacs Kohl says it's also important to set clear, firm rules that the teens must follow. They may react negatively at first, but in the end, they'll respect you for it. These things may seem like they'll require lots of your time, patience – and food – but the benefits make it all worth it. Not only do you get to forge a closer relationship with your teen while allowing him some independence, you may just find yourself feeling younger again. Go ahead, let the teens chill at your spot.

Want to see more?

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• Dating 101: Pre-dating Rituals for Young Teens
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