Keep in mind teenagers are not children. Teenagers are encountering an amazing array of changes in all areas of their lives-physically,intellectually, emotionally and socially. For this reason, some of the ways you've interacted with in the past need to change too. One of the most degrading things a parent, teacher or other adult can do is to treat teenagers like children. Treat teens the way you expect to be treated.
Adolescents have much to offer-provided they are given a chance.
One way is simply to ask for their opinions and suggestions- and then pay attention to what they have to say. Recognize their talents, abilities and efforts Instead of assuming teens already know when they've done a good job, tell them so. This means providing specific feedback about what they're doing, as well as telling them that their contributions and actions are appreciated. Teens live in a terribly competitive world. Sometimes they feel that no matter what they do, it's just not good enough.