Many parents feel ill-equipped to parent their teens. Learn how boundaries can help set a tone and provide direction for you as parents.
Talking Points:
- A boundary is your personal property line that defines who you are and who you are not, sets limits, and establishes consequences if people try to control you. It teaches a person to know who they are and how they’ll interface with the world around them.
- Parents need to set boundaries so their teens have the chance to learn and develop structure and discipline in their own life. Boundaries are a great tool for parents to teach their teen what’s appropriate and inappropriate behavior.
- It’s important that parents always keep the big picture in mind. Don’t get caught up in the little battles. Remember that you are teaching your teen to be a responsible adult. Choose to focus on the big lessons and let some of the little stuff go. Ephesians 6:4
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Describe what it was like growing up in your home. What were the rules, how were they enforced, and what were the main lessons you learned in your home?
- What are the main values you hope to teach your kids?
- What are your biggest fears of raising a teenager? Why?
- In your own words, why are boundaries important? In what areas do your teens need more boundaries? What do you think those boundaries should look like?
- Read Proverbs 22:6. What do you think it means that we should train up our kids? How can boundaries help you with that training?
- Read Ephesians 6:4. As a parent, do you get caught up fighting over the little things more than the big things? What can you do moving forward to change that dynamic?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
This topic is adapted from the book Boundaries with Teens by John Townsend.
