This archive report was first published on 10 July 2020.
Raising Teenagers in the Time of COVID-19 ¶
Friday, July 10, 2020, 2:00 AM
By Purity Wanjohi
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread, many teenagers are finding themselves stuck at home with their parents for months on end. While this may seem like a dream come true for some, it can be a challenging and frustrating experience for both parents and children.
Parents are struggling to balance rules and relationships with their teenagers, who are feeling cooped up and restless. Some are turning to their smartphones for entertainment, while others are rebelling against the rules and restrictions.
But experts say that there are ways to navigate this challenging time and build a stronger relationship with your teenager. Catherine Mwangi, a 46-year-old mother of a 15-year-old son, has found that engaging in recreational activities like indoor games and daily prayers has helped to demystify her as a parent and build trust with her child.
"We listen and talk to him. This enables us to get into his world and address his fears," she says.
Charles Chege, a reverend and father of two teenage boys, has also found that being honest and available has helped to build trust with his children. "Be honest. If you've been financially affected by COVID-19, let the children know so that they can adjust. Be available. Being walking adults doesn't make us parents," he advises.
Dr. Susan Gitau, a lead counsellor at the Susan Gitau Counselling Foundation, says that the key to managing teenagers during this time is to acknowledge their emotions and show empathy. "Parents tend to forget that once upon a time they were teens," she says.
"Go down to their level and meet them where they are. Be a source of stability," she advises.
She also recommends being calm, supporting independence, and engaging with your child. "Together, come up with a daily routine. This helps regulate their time and energy and encourages bonding," she says.
Ultimately, the foundation of good parenting is having a healthy, open relationship with your children. "It's never too late to start having a relationship with your children," Dr. Gitau says.
