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5 Interpersonal Relationship Problems Your Teen May Face
As parents, our instinct is to step in and protect our children from every difficulty. We see their pain, frustration, and struggle, and our first response is often to rush in and "help." But having watched my own teen navigate the ups and downs of life, I’ve learned that sometimes the best help we can offer is to step back. It's hard, yes…but the growth that happens when teens struggle is invaluable.
Struggle leads to courage. It builds confidence. It nurtures resilience and resourcefulness. As difficult as it is to watch them face these challenges, allowing them to do so gives them the skills they will need throughout their adult lives. The next time your teen encounters difficulty in one of these five key relationships, resist the urge to rescue. Instead, watch them learn, grow, and develop the tools they need to thrive.
The $1 Burrito That Changed How I Teach Budgeting for Kids
A few years ago, on Halloween night, my family found ourselves in line at Chipotle, ready to take advantage of their $1 burrito promotion. It was the perfect pre-trick-or-treating meal…cheap, easy, and a no-brainer, or so I thought.
As we stood there, my son, Jack, suddenly announced, "I'll be right back." Curious, I asked where he was going.
“I don’t feel like a burrito,” he said. “I’m going to Panera to get a salad.”
Now, I’m all for healthy eating, but my reaction had nothing to do with nutrition and everything to do with cost.
"A salad at Panera will cost you $10," I reminded him, expecting him to reconsider. But he confidently assured me that he had the money.
Jack had been managing his own budget for a while at this point. Each month, I gave him money to spend as he saw fit—within some basic guidelines—because I wanted him to learn how to make financial decisions. But as I watched him walk away to spend ten times the cost of a perfectly good burrito, I realized something:
Jack thought he had “plenty” of money simply because it was October 31st, and he still had funds left in his budget. Never mind that the next day was November 1st and a new month would bring new financial decisions. He was living entirely in the moment.
That was my lightbulb moment.
Chores by Age Group
If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is ready for chores or which ones to start with, you’re not alone. Chores can sometimes feel like a battle, but the truth is, they’re one of the best ways to teach responsibility, independence, and teamwork. The secret? Start small, stay consistent, and match tasks to your child’s stage of life.
Chores aren’t just about keeping a tidy home (though that’s a nice perk). They’re about helping kids grow into capable, confident adults, one small task at a time.
Giving children regular responsibilities at home isn’t just good for your household; it’s good for their future. Kids who help out learn important life skills, develop a sense of accomplishment, and understand what it means to contribute to a team. Plus, research shows that children who do chores are more likely to grow into independent, self-sufficient adults.
But how do you know what’s appropriate for each age? Here’s a guide to help you get started, with ideas for every stage.