5 Tips to Discipline Your Teens

Here are four ways to practice the kind of discipline that helps your teens become and eager spiritual learners.

1. Give your teen boundaries.

Have you notice along the farms where cows are grazing?  They are always located near the fence!
It is also the same with our children, especially our teens.  You should define and give your boundaries for your teen.  Boundaries that are fully understood and could be followed.

2. Show firmness with your decision but mercy and love should not be left out. 

Sometimes it is advisable that, when you impose discipline and punishment upon your child, you should try to suffer the penalty along with him or her.  By doing this, you are teaching him or her about compassion and love.  You are actually reflecting the message of why did God sent His Son to die on the cross our behalf.  To pay for the penalty of our sins, since He is sinless.

3. Do not relinquish your parental authority too soon.

You should instill in the mind of your children that you are still the voice of authority over their lives.  It is because you love them so much and you don't want them to wander away from the right path.  You could give them freedom that they are ready to handle given their age and sense of responsibility.  But giving penalty or discipline should still be imposed in cases that there are disobedience made.

4. Limit activities that are not worthwhile.

Having fun is good for your relationship with your kids.  But too much watching videos and movies, strolling the malls, and playing video games can rob us out of quality time.  Spending time reading a Bible story or a child's devotional book must also be a priority in instilling moral values for children.  You should practice taking a 30 minute period of rest daily with your teen.

5. Think long-term.

Train your child to build a good character by himself or herself.  Teach him or her to practice self-control and controlling his or her temper or other negative behavior.  Do not forget to praise him or her when you see progress and development towards good behavior.

Giving the right kind of discipline to your teens will not only help you gain your teen's respect, but in the long run, will also give you and your children a lasting relationship for both of you to cherish.