How to Negotiate a Curfew With a Teenager

Every age that ends with "teen" can be difficult for both parents and children. A common point of contention in many households is by what time a teenager needs to be home. With a little (or in some cases, a lot) of patience, courtesy and common sense from both the parent and the teen, a compromise can be reached.

Instructions

1. Know your city ordinances for teens if any are in place. More cities across the country are implementing city curfews that fine parents if children are out past the designated time. Make it clear to your teen that a city-imposed curfew isn't open to negotiation.

2. Pick out the main factors that affect your teen's curfew. These can vary from child to child, but common considerations when it comes to curfews for teenagers are the amount of sleep he needs, how trustworthy and responsible he is and what kind of activities your teen is going to be participating in.

3. Open the communication lines by logically expressing to your teen why you want her home at the time you do. Likewise, listen to what she has to say. If a school or community activity ends after your curfew time or if your teens curfew is dramatically different from her friends' curfews, consider being flexible with the curfew.

4. Ask questions. The more you know about your teen's plans, the easier it is to come up with a time that is acceptable to you both. Though they might balk at the rules, teens aren't opposed to them completely. Having reasonable, mature conversations lets your teen know you care.