by Elaine M. Healy

Created on: November 08, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

During the holiday season I think that it is okay for a teen to shop alone for gifts. At an appropriate age, which is usually in the teens, children need to feel out there own independence and this is a fantastic way to do so. It is easy to allow your teen to shop safely with a few guidelines. You have to shop so take them to the mall with you. During the drive explain to them what your expectations are and any consequences if they are failed to be met.

1) Have a frank conversation with your teen before hand about safety. Keeping there money and belongings safe; and more importantly keeping themselves safe. To always be aware of who is around them and to be very careful of who they should talk to. In addition, that should go without saying, that under no circumstances should they leave the mall.

2) Select a meeting location and make sure that the child knows where it is before you separate. I suggest the security desk. When you go into the mall walk to the security desk together and explain that you are going to meet back at this exact spot. Take the time to point out what the security guards are wearing so that they can spot them easily in mall if a situation should arise and they need assistance.

3) Be sure that your teen has a cell phone on them with a charged battery so that you can be in contact. I would randomly call the child to see what store they are in and what their progress is. Also, explan that it is important for them to call you if they are at all uncomfortable and you will be right there. It is not a failure and shouldn't be considered and embarrassment as it is your job as a parent to keep them safe.

4) Explain that however much money they have is what they have and you are not an ATM. If they want to eat they can eat but they have to make sure they still have enough to complete their shopping. Make it clear that if they have $50 they can't get there best friend and $45 shirt.

5) Tell your child exactly what time you are going to meet back at the agreed upon spot. I would even set the alarm on the cell phone for about 10 minutes prior to the meeting time as a reminder. If they aren't there, then not only do you blow that cell phone off the hook but you have them paged over the intercom. Any teen will be on time if they believe they might be publicly embarrassed.

Go ahead and give you child some wings while keeping them on a lease. Both the good and the bad experiences will help them grow into productive adults. Every lesson is a lesson learned and you have to give them the chances to learn their own lessons.

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