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Hertfordshire County Council

My teen brain

Advice and tips for parents of teenagers

Understanding your teen

  • Changes in hormones cause mood swings and affect sleep.
  • Teens want more independence so they're pushing boundaries.
  • Brain development is a reason teenagers take risks.

Teach your teen

  • Don't be too hard on them if they make a mistake - no one's perfect.
  • Make sure they learn as much as possible from their mistakes.
  • Use your own past experiences to help your teen overcome challenges.

Helping your teen through change

Helping your teen through change

  • Behaviour will not always be consistent or sensible. Bear this in mind when talking to your teen.
  • Remember that lots of changes are taking place that we can't always see.
  • Your support is vital in these intense years of brain development.

Read more about teen brain changes

Supporting your teen

Supporting your teen

  • We all handle situations differently. Always explain to your teen why you do the things you do.
  • Set rules and consequences for your teen but explain why you are doing it.
  • Don't forget time for yourself. It's just as important that you are stress free as well as your teen.

Find out how you can support your teen

Understanding your teen's decisions

Understanding your teen's decisions

  • Listen to what they have to say and they will be open to listen to you.
  • Making decisions is a learning process. Support your teen in the decisions they make.
  • Get to know your teen's friends, they can be just as important as you in supporting your child.

Discover how to respond to your teens decisions

Help for you and your teen

  • YoungMinds are a leading charity focused on improving the mental health of teenagers.
  • Gives support and guidance to young people.
  • Provides tips and advice for concerned parents.

Go to the YoungMinds website

My teen brain - helpful resources

  • We offer one-day courses for professionals.
  • Delivery pack for a My Teen Brain lesson in schools
  • You can download our teen brain booklet, poster and leaflet.

View all helpful resources

Shelf help - support and advice for you and your teen

  • We have a collection of books to help teens cope with the pressures of life.
  • You'll be able to find information and advice as well as personal stories.
  • These books cover a range of issues such as dealing with anxiety, depression and stress.

Support books for you and your teen

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