The challenges of 18.

We raise them pretty smart around here, for the most part. Case in point, a young man who attends the same school as my son wrote an article for the local paper concerning the logistics of turning 18 while still a senior in high school and how that can put a strain on the relationships with us poor parents.

He’s got some good advice in there as he talks about what worked for his family. They engaged in what say here all the time – TALKING with each other – and found a solution that fit his parents and himself, as they work through this new stage in their relationship.

I remember turning 18 in the last half of my Senior year. To me, it didn’t makr some change to where I suddenly felt like an adult. I could vote! But, well, there wasn’t an election handy. I could be tried as an adult! But, well, I was a good girl, and all senses of the word. (Quit laughing, mom. You know I was!) I could… well. I could move out and live on my own and only answer to myself – but I also had several months of school left. In the end, it just wasn’t that much different. I didn’t even sign my own excuse notes for school – because I never skipped it.

I know. I was SUCH a goody two-shoes.

If you haven’t talked to your teen about it yet, and they’re nearing that magical Adult Age, maybe you should discuss it with them. Let them know ahead of time what the rules will be, and come to a consensus of what will be expected of them as long as they’re living under your roof. With my parents it was simple, and we didn’t need to go so far as young Mr. Misner, with a 3rd party contract and such. My parents put it the same way as I did to my kids: My house, my rules.

Fortunately, though it seems pretty iron clad? There’s still room for negotiation. So, bottom line? Say it with me, folks! TALK TO YOUR KIDS. You’ll be glad you did!