Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter

Caring for a teen is a full-time job especially so for single parents. At this point in their lives they experience countless changes. These changes impact on the entire family.

A typical teen will move away from his or her parents both emotionally and physically while discovering himself or herself. It is during these years that they begin to make important life choices. However, research shows that they make better choices when parents create an environment that allows freedom for decision-making while keeping a close connection with them.

It is important for parents to be a part of their teen's lives. Very often, when parents are too busy with the hassles of every-day life, it is peers, the media or others with negative influences that help them to make decisions. As part of the new changes they go through, teens tend to lean more on their friends but they still need the guidance of parents in decision making.

Dr. Jennifer James, assistant psychologist at Family Life Ministries, St. Andrew, said there are several steps that parents need to take in maintaining bonds with their teens:

The first thing parents need to understand is the developmental stage. At every developmental stage there will be changes such as hormonal and parents have to learn to make the necessary adjustments.

Teens tend to gravitate to their peers. Understand that this is normal and renegotiate the relationship between you. It's no longer just because you say so, as this is the stage they develop analytical reasoning.

Listen to them. Develop the habit of answering whatever obscure questions they ask as this sets the foundation of communication for future adolescent storms.

Tolerance is important. Every parent needs to take a course in keeping a straight face. Do not be shocked by anything and even if you are, try to keep a straight face in their presence. Sometimes teens will say things just to push your buttons.

Treat them with respect. Allow them to make some decisions, they will make mistakes but do not kill them for these mistakes.

Other steps to consider:

Spend fun time together

Though teens are caught up with spending all their time with friends, it is important that the family find time to be together. Spend weekends doing fun activities that help strengthen bonds.

Include friends

Teens love spending time with friends, and the more parents know about the friends, the better. It is also good to know their friends' parents.

Talk about expectations

Although they may not let parents know it, teens regularly want to please you. Those whose parents discuss their values and expectations make much better life choices.

Help them find their goal

Research shows that teens with a goal, such as college or a career, make safer choices. Talking with teens about their goals and helping them form a plan for success is a great way for parents to keep connected.

Dine together regularly

The family table is where a lot about each other is discussed and thus strengthens the bonds between parents and children.

Encourage their individuality

It is difficult for some parents to relinquish control of teens. However, adolescents with the freedom to find their own individuality transition into adulthood more smoothly.

Offer open communication

Teens will continue to talk with their parents about a variety of issues when they can discuss feelings openly.