How to Encourage Teens to Take Social Distancing Seriously
The pandemic has affected all age groups, some more so than others. Teens are in a particularly frustrating situation. Due to the need for lockdowns, school closures, social distancing, and more, they’ve missed out on a lot of milestones such as sports, proms, graduations, summer jobs, and more.
They’re also at an age where time with their peers means a great deal to their identity. Hanging out with their parents at home all the time can get old, fast.
And, of course, adolescents live with an exuberant false sense of immortality that leads them to throw caution to the wind. It’s hard for them to see the point of wearing masks or distancing from their friends when they’re young and healthy.
As their parent, you may be concerned about this. Here are some ideas to help you encourage them to follow CDC guidelines.
Be Empathetic
Few things make your teen least likely to follow your suggestions than feeling like you don’t understand where they’re coming from.
As with all relationships, your teens want to feel heard by you. They want to know that you take their frustrations seriously. What they don’t want is to feel judged or like their concerns aren’t important to you.
Allow Them to Grieve
The truth is that teens have lost a great deal over the last year because of the pandemic. It’s normal that they’re going to need to grieve these losses. Take the time to teach them about grief. Help them identify how grief may be playing out in their lives.
At the same time, allow them the space to grieve. Don’t take it personally when they need time alone to process their feelings.
Plan Creative Activities
Fortunately, teens can still spend time together while following CDC guidelines. With a little creativity and planning, they might even have more fun together than they thought possible!
With spring here and summer on its way, outdoor activities are a great way for teens to socialize. Of course, there are sports, swimming pools, and socially distanced picnics. But you could also try an outdoor talent show, appreciation night, or recital in someone’s backyard. Doing this virtually could also be a great option. Set up a movie projector toward your garage door or a sheet for a movie night.
Lean on Other Adults
Teens may take advice about COVID guidelines more seriously if it comes from someone else. Try to find out what their teachers have taught them about following recommendations. You can reach out to their teachers for more support, or call upon favorite grandparents or aunts and uncles to give their perspective.
While you’re at it, take the chance to (respectfully) discuss how possible transmission of the coronavirus could be detrimental to these same beloved family members. Share examples of other families who have had members become seriously ill or even pass away from the virus. Doing this can help your teens make a real connection to the seriousness of the pandemic.
Be Clear About Family Expectations
Knowing how to discipline your kids is never easy, no matter their age. But it’s important to make sure that your teens know what your boundaries are surrounding pandemic safety. You may not be able to track their every move or know whether or not they’ve worn a mask when away from home. You can still make your expectations clear, though, and provide incentives for cooperation or disincentives for lack of cooperation.
***
Being a teen (or the parent of a teen) isn’t easy. The pandemic has been draining on everyone. If you and your teen are struggling, please know that reaching out for professional help is an important option to consider. Our office is providing teletherapy and is skilled at working with teens and families. Please call us to learn more.