Can Help Medications and Side Effects Teenagers Aren't Adults Yet Treating a teenager like a substitute adult can create more problems.
Small children get babysitters.
Teenagers are often expected to fill in for the sick parent, especially if the parent is the one who takes care of the routine chores around the house. Try to protect their time with friends, sports and personal interests. Impose on grown friends and relatives, if you can, to fill in the blanks left by your partner's illness.