Raising Purpose-Driven Kids

By Dr Bill Maier

So what do teenagers want out of life? Well, the same things you and I want — love, acceptance and purpose.

Too often, parents forget that teenagers aren't big kids — they're young adults. And they're struggling daily through this tough transition between childhood and adulthood.

Teens who get involved in drugs, sex, alcohol and other damaging patterns of behaviour aren't looking for trouble — they're looking for love and affirmation.

And whether they know it or not, they're seeking something to commit their lives to.

If you want to affect the life of a teenager, you begin by stepping into their world and letting them know you care.

Be the role model that they need and accept them for who they are, not who you think they should be.

Raising happy teens isn't that difficult. They need love. They need acceptance. And they need family.

From TODAY, Voices – Monday, 07-Sep-2009

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