Developmental Stuff: What works

So at a time when there is so much change going on, how do you still remain a positive influence in a young persons life?

What happens when that young innocent child disappears? Do they ever return?
Adolescence can be likened to the full maturation of a caterpillar to a butterfly. When that caterpillar sheds it's cocoon, this whole new being emerges but although no longer a child, still with an underdeveloped understanding of the world. There is a whole new level of uncertainty present now and a cagey sense of direction.Throw into the mix that their entire peer group is going through this same developmental stage, that's a whole lot of change on a mass scale.

It's important to allow your young person enough space to grow into themselves. It's so easy to forget how tentative we once were as youngsters. No one likes being rushed so be careful you're not asking you child to grow up too fast because you are losing your cool waiting for them arrive. They don't know who they are yet. Many adults are still struggling to find the answer to that question.

Be patient. Keep your cool and be supportive.
Create a trusting environment where they feel safe to venture out developmentally and return.

Keep  the lines of communication open so they know they can always come to you.
If you are too critical and at worst continuously punitive they will never develop confidence in themselves but develop a side that is hidden from you. You want them to experience life in the open, not in the shadows.