The seventh step to Peace of Mind Parenting is understanding the Millennial Generation. Teens born between 1982 and 2000 are part of the most hopeful generation in 100 years. They are motivated, goal‐oriented, confident and will have a profound positive impact on the future. This step is about knowing what your teen is doing and what is normal for the culture. The following seven tips will get you started…
1. Abundance is their norm.
Millennial kids were raised in a good economic climate with an abundance of food, clothing, education, shelter, and, most importantly, love from their parents. Millennial kids were treated as special, felt entitled, and were encouraged to achieve their dreams.
2. They are academically oriented.
Grade point averages are rising with this generation. These teens expect to go to college and focus on working hard, getting good grades, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and demonstrating leadership to make that happen.
3. They are civic and service minded.
This generation is optimistic having growing up with tragedies such as Columbine, the Twin Towers, Hurricane Katrina, the war in Iraq and the Oklahoma City bombing. Civil servants have emerged as role models. Many high schools require community service for graduation.
4. They are technologically sophisticated.
The technology explosion (computers, iPods, voicemail, email, YouTube, social media) has created technologically savvy teens. Most teens also have a talent for balancing 2 ‐ 3 tasks at a time, earning them the label “multi‐tasking generation.”
5. They value parental relationships.
Raised by involved parents, most teens say that a strong, close relationship with their parents is a top priority. Many admit that their parents are their #1 role models.
6. They are team oriented.
Millennial teens band together to socialize and date, rather than pairing off. They are group oriented, rather than individuals.
7. They are spiritually grounded.
Two‐thirds report having faith in God and rank values as very important. Leaving no one behind, being inclusive and tolerant of all races, religions and sexual orientations are hallmarks of this generation. Enjoying what they do and having a feeling of purpose overrides money as a measure of success.
Please note that even though the use of sex, drugs and alcohol are reportedly lower, parents still need to be vigilant of the signs of risky behaviors. Individual and group coaching will address these behaviors.
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