Do they calm down?

[ladybirdflies]

There is a brilliant book called, between form and freedom which may be useful for you. I know we spend a fair amoun of time looking into our babies and pregnancy books but it tends to dwindle off with time. Being informed and having practical solutions may make you feel ready and supported when it comes to meeting his needs and the needs of the family. Between Form and Freedom offers a wealth of insights about teenagers and a compassionate, intelligent, and intuitive look into the minds of children and adolescents. Betty Staley explores the nature of adolescence and considers teenagers' needs in relation to family, friends, schools, love, and the arts. She also deals with issues of stress, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and eating disorders.

This is a valuable guide and inspiration for all parents of teenagers.
About the Author
Betty Staley has been a Waldorf teacher for over thirty-five years. She directs the Foundation Year and Waldorf High School programs at Rudolf Steiner College. In addition, she has been active in programs for public school teachers and teachers of At-Risk students there. She founded the Multi-cultural Committee of Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA).


I hope this helps!

[LionsandBears]

I know I used to think 13-14 year old boys were the pits. Studies have shown that during adolescence our brains rewire to the point that we lose levels of compassion and self-control. Teenagers are self-absorbed for a reason - their brain is undergoing similar growth to toddlers. They need similar boundaries as 2 year olds.

A couple of other books you may find interesting include:
He'll Be Ok: Growing Gorgeous Boys Into Good Men, Celia Lashlie
The New Manhood, and Raising Boys, Steve Biddulph (apparently Raising Boys revised version includes more on teenagers)

GL - sounds like you're having a tough time atm.

[Lisa]

My son is 17 and still like this, although less violent toward his sister these days. I feel for you hun I love my son but often find myself missing who he once was. I look forward to the day when this is all over and he is more rational and has less of a temper.
Fingers crossed that day comes soon for both of our sons

[KimB]

My DS is the same. He turned 12 this year and omg has his attitude and temper ramped up. I have been tearing my hair out. I have read Raising Boys and it does explain quite a bit. Doesn't mean he is not due for a slap up the back of the head lol.

[Tinks]

I am SO relieved that he's not the only one.

You're right about hormones! I'm getting sick of them, yet I know this is only the beginning. Having 2 hormonal kids in this house is like a roller coaster and I don't like this ride!

Do you have any tricks or tips to help me get through it?

[Feijoa Mum]

I have two hormonal ones and two toddlers as well and I find copious amounts of vodka helps


Sorry love no magic cure here just lots of sympathetic hugs

[Tinks]

Oh dear FJ! You are a glutton for punishment!

I agree with the vodka. I'd put it on my cereal every morning if it wasn't illegal to drive under the influence

[RainbowBrite]

I have two hormonal ones and two toddlers as well and I find copious amounts of vodka helps

I have the same but three toddlers...and it is cider here

My DS1 is nearly 15 and is the same, he can be a real bully to his younger brothers (8 and 10), they 'play' fight but the littler ones always end up in tears.
He is still polite and respectful to me and does listen (mainly when I yell) but I am having problems at school...he just doesn't care.
I think one of the underling issues for him is losing his dad last year...add hormone and your have a angsty (is that a word ) teenager.
My DD1 (16) is not to bad but she still screams at the others when they upset her.