By Corrie Lynn Player
click here to find out
how to purchase this book
Table of Contents
Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
PART I: INTRODUCTION TO TEENAGE BEHAVIOR
Chapter 1: Teenagers Are Part Child, Part Adult, and Part Alien
An overview of typical adolescent behavior. Why “teenagers” are a modern
phenomenon. Some of the idiosyncrasies that crop up. The physical changes that
come with adolescence.
Chapter 2: Learning to Talk to Each Other
Communication—the most important step in developing healthy family
relationships. Specific activities that will help you develop your communication
skills.
Chapter 3: Forging Strong Family Ties
Connecting with extended family and how this makes parenting adolescents much
easier. Organizing successful family reunions and family councils where
teenagers learn about their place in the eternal scheme of things.
Chapter 4: Defusing Sibling Rivalry
Dealing with quarrelling siblings and building family unity. Common mistakes
parents make. Mortal life is a paradox. Teaching kids to express their emotions
in a positive way.
PART II: GETTING COOPERATION FROM YOUR TEENS
Chapter 5: Convincing Kids to Help Out
Handy hints designed to help you convince your capable but lazy offspring to do
more than indent his pillow or arrange her eye makeup according to color. How
teens can become motivated. Examples of effective chore charts and other devices
that teach a work ethic.
Chapter 6: Disciplining Strategies That Really Work
To discipline means “to teach” and involves the necessity of establishing
consistent, simple rules of behavior that instruct as well as designate
boundaries.
PART III: HEALTHY TEENS—INSIDE AND OUT
Chapter 7: Developing Self-Esteem and Self-Control
The “Three-Legged-Stool” metaphor for developing self-esteem: 1) feeling
appreciated, 2) feeling skilful, and 3) taking responsibility. Specific ideas
and activities that will enhance your child's success in these three areas.
Chapter 8: Putting Food into Perspective
Three aspects of the care and feeding of teenagers: 1) What, where, and when
food is consumed, 2) Rapid growth and special needs of young athletes, and 3)
Avoidance of eating disorders.
Chapter 9: Establishing Good Sleep Habits
Convincing adolescents to turn out the lights before 2:00 AM. Practical tips on
maintaining the delicate balance between a kid’s independence and his or her
need for sufficient sleep.
PART IV: THE SOCIAL AND SCHOOL SCENE
Chapter 10: Getting the Most out of School
School is the greatest influence on maturing teens outside their homes. How to
help your children succeed in school. The author’s training and experience as a
teacher give insights into the balance between home and school.
Chapter 11: Raising Responsible Drivers
A sixteen-year-old with a driver’s license is a main source of family conflict
and poverty. Driving is a privilege and not a right.
Chapter 12: Encouraging Suitable Friendships
Helping kids develop and maintain friendships. What to do when a friendship is
destructive and leads to conflicts with family and society. What to do when a
young person seems to be rejected by peers or has trouble keeping a friendship
going.
PART V: THE IMPORTANCE OF VALUES
Chapter 13: Talking Straight About Morality
Developing and maintaining morality in an immoral society Giving teenagers
strength to build healthy, loving relationships rather than engaging in
premature sexual activity. Sensible advice about relying on universal moral
standards to eliminate drug use, including underage indulgence in alcohol and
tobacco.
Chapter 14: Teaching Faith
Happiness comes through activity and adherence to the family’s faith. Breaking
away and growing up does not need to mean they break away from following correct
moral principles. Different methods that have worked for different parents.
Parents have a right to personal inspiration about handling problems in their
own homes.
Afterword: My Nest Runneth Over
Some of the rewards that come from parenting a large, varied family. Why the
Lord suckers people into having babies and keeps the bewildering facts about
teenagers a secret. Who in her right mind would choose a bunch of teenagers?
This afterword gives further details about the Player children and how they
taught their parents to endure.
