A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark. (Chinese Proverb).

As parents, we have taken on the monumental responsibility of developing young humans. Unlike other animals that teach basic survival skills and then allow their offspring to learn from trial and error, our role extends far beyond that. For example, elephants stay with their mothers for several years, learning complex social structures and behaviors. Similarly, orcas, or killer whales, live in close-knit family groups where young ones learn hunting techniques and social bonds from their elders. In contrast, as human parents, we need to teach and help our teens build resilience, ensure they have a strong sense of self-worth, and boost their self-esteem. The most effective way to do this is by being the parent you know your teen needs—it’s all about role modeling. Teens may not always acknowledge it, but you are their biggest hero. In fact, when asked who their role models are, most teens often name one of their parents. So, make sure you are the role model your teen wants to emulate.

Building resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity and challenges. It is a vital skill for teens to develop as it helps them cope with the ups and downs of life. As parents, we play a crucial role in building our teens’ resilience by providing a supportive environment and encouraging them to face challenges head-on. One way to build resilience is by allowing your teen to experience failure and learn from it. It’s important to let them know that failure is a natural part of life and that it provides valuable learning opportunities. By supporting them through their failures and helping them find solutions, we can teach them to be resilient and persistent. Regular communication is key. Engage in open and honest conversations with your teen, ask about their day, their thoughts, and their feelings. Listen actively and show genuine interest in their lives. Encourage their independence by allowing them to make their own decisions and learn from their experiences, while also setting clear and consistent rules and expectations. Boundaries provide a sense of security and help teens understand the importance of responsibility and accountability.

Self-worth is the sense of one’s own value and importance. It is essential for teens to develop a strong sense of self-worth to navigate the challenges of high school and adulthood. As parents, we can enhance our teens’ self-worth by providing unconditional love and support. Praising your teen’s efforts and achievements, no matter how small, helps them feel valued and appreciated. Encouraging them to pursue their passions and interests also contributes to their sense of self-worth. It’s important to let them know that their worth is not solely based on external achievements but also on their intrinsic qualities and character. Being present in their lives is important. Make time for your teen. Attend their events, participate in their interests, and be there when they need you. Your presence is a powerful way to show your support and love. Help your teen develop critical thinking skills by encouraging them to question and analyze information. Discuss current events, media content, and various perspectives to broaden their understanding.

Self-esteem is the overall sense of self-confidence and self-respect. It is closely related to self-worth and an abundance of self-esteem is a must for a teen’s mental and emotional well-being. As parents, we can boost our teens’ self-esteem by creating a positive and supportive environment. Encouraging open communication and active listening helps your teen feel heard and understood. Validating their feelings and experiences also contributes to their self-esteem. It’s important to be a positive role model by demonstrating self-respect and confidence in your own actions and decisions. Model the values and behaviors you want your teen to adopt by handling stress, resolving conflicts, and maintaining healthy relationships in a positive manner. If you yell at the waiter at a restaurant, your teen will do the same as you have demonstrated that is acceptable behavior. Just as we laughed when our toddler swears because they have heard us swear, your teen will do the same but the consequences can be far worse. Encourage open communication, engage in meaningful conversations, and validate their feelings and experiences. Help your teen set realistic goals and provide support as they work towards them, celebrating their accomplishments and providing constructive feedback when necessary.

As parents, we are the most powerful influence on our children, leaving lasting impressions throughout their lives, an enormous responsibility indeed. How often do we catch ourselves behaving as our own parents did? It is important for us to serve as the role models who provide essential support and guidance for our teens. Our goal is to nurture their resilience, self-worth, and self-esteem, equipping them with the strength of character to navigate today’s challenges and those of the future. By empowering our teens in this way, we contribute to shaping a generation that embodies confidence, resilience, and preparedness for life’s complexities. Let us embrace our roles as the unwavering role models our teens both need and admire.