Steady on, 21st century parent. Adolescents, teenagers, young people, are still just people. There is no need to fix, cure, treat or throttle them. In fact, now more than ever they need you to understand, listen, observe and guide so that they can continue their journey from childhood.

You are more important in all this than you realise. You are half of the relationship with them — a half that you may not know very well. Your confidence as a parent will only work properly when you know how your history, attitudes and behaviours really influence the teenager that has to live with you.

This book will help you understand: · the most common pitfalls of parenting · the role of rules, regulations and rows · teenagers’ relationships with each other · the differences between girls and boys that impact on their teenage years

It’s time not just to wonder about your child growing up but to actively get involved in the excitement of it too. In doing so, and in learning about yourself, you will figure out how to get the best out of your teenager and enjoy these years together.