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Teaching your teenagers to build lifelong relationships can be a difficult chore in these days and times.

I believe it all starts at home. If we as parents build good,solid relationships,our children are apt to do the same. What do they see in you,the parents life? Has there been divorce? Do you go through friends like pieces of candy?

It starts with the family. The relationship between husband and wife comes first. Open honesty is number one in my book. If teens see this in their parents,they too will be open and honest. You cannot have a healthy relationship without honesty.

Another trait they need to see is affection. It is OK to hold hands even though you have been married twenty or thirty years. By showing your love and affection to your spouse,you will teach your teenager to not be embarrassed to do the same which will build lifelong relationships.

The way you treat your friends will be noticed by your teenager also.

I have found that a person usually only has one or two very good friends in life. The way you treat those friends will surely be a reflection of how your children will treat their friends. How do you talk about them when they are not around?

We must always remember,our children have eyes and ears. They have a brain and can put two and two together. The ways you treat and respond to your friends,family,co-workers,and especially your spouse WILL be noticed and most likely mocked by your teenagers.

I mentioned divorce;I know that there are those who are already in that position and have teenagers. If they see a change in you they can come around to building better relationships also.

We all make mistakes,so don't be condemned. Your child can still learn.

I truly believe a good church atmosphere can help build relationships too.

Communication is always the MAIN KEY! Talk with your teens. Tell them your dreams,they will listen! Explain to them why you feel a lifelong relationship is the best way to go.

Believe it or not,teens do want to have discussions with their parents. They just don't know how to go about it. Take the lead,but don't embarrass them. You will get no where doing that.

Remember,parents are usually heroes in the eyes of their children. They want to be just like us. How we treat relationships will guide how they will!

Learn more about this author, Greg B..
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