Five Creative Ways to Cheer Up Your Teenager
By Lizzie Weakley
If you’re like many parents, you may find that cheering up your teenager can be a challenge. Teens often struggle with both mental and physical health issues, from depression to hormones and beyond. Fortunately, there are plenty of creative ways that parents can use to boost their teens’ moods and make them feel better. This blog post will take a look at five of the most effective!
1. Make a List of Accomplishments
A great way to cheer up your teen is by making a list of their accomplishments—both large and small. This could be anything from getting an A on their math test to playing in a school play or becoming captain of the soccer team. Writing down all these successes can remind your teen of how much they’ve achieved in life, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem.
2. Take Them Out for Fresh Nachos
Instead of ordering traditional fast food, why not bring your teen out for some fresh nachos from a Mexican restaurant? Not only will this provide them with a delicious snack, but it will also give them the chance to spend quality time with you—which is always good for the soul! Plus, you’ll get to enjoy it too!
3. Have an Open Conversation about Their Feelings
It can be difficult for teenagers to open up about their feelings, so it’s important for parents to create an environment where they feel comfortable doing so. Have an honest conversation about what’s bothering them and encourage them to share what they are feeling without judgment. You don’t have to have all the answers; just listening can make all the difference in the world!
4. Put on Some Music
Music has long been known as one of the best ways to cheer someone up, even if they aren’t particularly into music themselves. Put on some upbeat tunes and encourage your teen dance around or sing along—it might just be enough to lift their spirits!
5. Give Them Some Space
As much as you want your teenager to be happy all day every day, sometimes they just need some space so that they can sort through their emotions on their own terms. Let your teen know that you are there for them if they need it but also respect their need for privacy when necessary—they’ll appreciate it more than you realize!
While cheering up your teenager may seem daunting at first, these five creative ways should help make things easier—from making lists of accomplishments and taking them out for fresh nachos, to having open conversations about their feelings and giving them space when necessary. Remember that being there for your teen is one of the best gifts you can give them—so don’t hesitate to show them some extra love whenever possible!
About the Author
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
*Bio photo courtesy of Lizzie Weakley
