|
 So
you're having the usual heart-to-heart conversations
with your preteen about drinking, smoking, drugs
and sex, but what are the topics you aren't talking
about that maybe you should? According to
Melissa Chessher's article "Let's Talk"
in Parents magazine (www.parents.com), here are
five topics that parents and preteen shouldn't
ignore.
Peer
pressure - As your child becomes more influenced
by friends and classmates, be sure that your child
knows the importance of his or her own value system.
Tolerance - As they experience new relationships,
preteens begin to realize that not everyone is
just like them, so take time to discuss the dangers
of prejudice and stereotyping-for example making
assumptions about people based on race, religion,
or appearance.
Teasing-Preteens tend to be embarrassed if they're
being bullied. And they may not even know
that teasing others-even if they don't intend
harm-can be hurtful. Talking about teasing
can surface otherwise buried emotions.
Body image-Discussing image issues can give
you a sense of how your child feels about his
or her physical appearance. Make sure your
child has a healthy outlook on "beauty."
Tattling-Advise your preteen that it's important
to tell an adult when another person is doing
something harmful. Let your child know that
it's okay to confide in you. |
