How to Survive When Quarantined with Teenagers
Original image from Steinar Engeland on Unsplash.
1. Assess the danger level.
A single teen is likely to be more difficult to entertain, but also more used to being alone. Conversely, multiple teens may occupy one another, but also create more drama. Be prepared to react quickly as your circumstances dictate.
2. Understand teen psychology.
Teen years are known as “push-pull:” teens are asserting their independence, yet still reliant on parents. They may refer to fears of the virus as “overblown” or “ridiculous” while at the same claim everything is “contaminated” and that you’re “going to kill us.” Teen angst, overreaction, exaggeration, and out-of-hand dismissal of everything is normal (if annoying).
3. Create routines.
Everyone needs structure, especially teens. Assign each teen a bullet journal, which should be used by the teen to create a daily schedule: wake up time, workout time, reading time, TV and Web time, and so on. Teens should be encouraged to video conference with friends and family on a regular basis.
4. Bond with your teen(s), but don’t go overboard
Teens are highly attuned to anything “fake,” “phony,” “annoying,” or “Boomer.” Schedule regular family activities (board and card games, movie night, group cooking) but don’t overdo it: The teen is likely to fly off the handle if you’re viewed as “trying too hard” or “pretending everything is normal.”
5. Assign tasks.
Like prisoners, teens in quarantine will learn to appreciate completing tasks, which provides a feeling of accomplishment. Consider having the teen clean the house, organize cupboards and closets, or cook. Use caution when attempting to instruct the teen how to accomplish anything: this will not work.
6. Get the teen out of the house.
Using proper social distancing, you and the teen(s) should leave the house at least once per day. This might be for rigorous exercise, or just for a walk. Either way, teens need activity, and it can’t only be inside.
7. Take “teen breaks”.
Adults require time away from their teens. Typically, this would occur while the teen is at school and the adult is at work. In quarantine, the separation time needs strict enforcement or insanity may result. Do not feel guilty for seeking separation from your teen.