As children grow up they tend to spend more time with their friends, and less time with their family.  It's easy for parents to feel like their child doesn't need them or want their company.  While teens might seem knowledgeable and confident, they still need help and advice.  And if they don't get this from their parents, they will go elsewhere, probably to friends their own age who know as little as them. 

Parenting of teenagers involves a fine balancing act.  On the one hand, you have to encourage independence; on the other, you have to maintain authority as a parent.  Striking the right balance isn't easy.

One thing many parents find particularly hard is talking to their teenagers about sensitive issues like sex and drugs.  When it comes to tricky subjects like these, it's important that parents are well informed.  There are support agencies that can support you, and you can find information on these within the Family Information Directory.

To find out more about the way we work with young people in North Somerset and what they can learn from their involvement with us look at our Youth Work Curriculum and the North Somerset Youth Offer .

There are many different useful books, leaflets and websites that can help support parents and carers to support their teenagers.

There is also support available via North Somerset 11-19 Parenting Handbook.