But there are still important issues that must be discussed before your teen can sever the umbilical cord to your Visa card. I know you have built a relationship with your teenager where sensitive matters are discussed openly and honestly, with trust and confidence. That firm foundation will let you have this imperative little talk about the Real Facts of Life. Plan a time without interruptions. Adopt a polite and firm manner to present your request, demonstrating your respect for your teen's viewpoint.
Teenagers have feelings too.
Before you have this chat, decide which of the Real Facts your teen is prepared to handle. Your teen may give you subtle signs that he or she is not ready to absorb all this adult material at once. These may include rude gestures, laughing hysterically, sobbing, slamming doors, or setting the dog on fire. When you dump soggy corn flakes in the sink, Mom or Dad cleans them out, usually by hand. When you live alone, you are the garbage fairy.