If you’re parenting a teen—or looking ahead to the day when you will be—what should your goals be? Today on Home School Heartbeat with HSLDA President Mike Smith, parenting author John Rosemond discusses this special season of preparation.
Mike Smith:
John Rosemond joins me again today. John, when a child turns 13, another major transition in parenting occurs. What is the season of mentoring and what are parents’ goals during this season?
John Rosemond:
The season of mentoring begins around age 13. And this is what rituals like the Jewish Bar Mitzvah signify: the completion of the child’s discipling during season two and the beginning of season three, which is the season of mentoring. And your job is to help the child acquire the specific skills that he or she is going to need in order to emancipate successfully and—let me stress this—at the earliest age possible.
We no longer understand what, clearly, our responsibility to the child is. And furthermore, we no longer clearly understand that our responsibility is not simply to the child, it is to the culture. It is undeniable that it is good for everyone, that it is good for America, that children assume responsible, productive roles in society, in the economy, as early as possible in their lives.
Mike:
John, these are really practical insights, and thanks for sharing them with our listeners! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
