How do you handle peer pressure when your kids want to be like everyone else | DadHQ

How do you handle peer pressure when your kids want to be like everyone else

May 21 min read

My 12 year old is asking to watch shows and play games that I'm not comfortable with. All his friends apparently have them. I told him we have different values in our house and he got mad, said I'm the only dad who won't let him have stuff. Wife and I prayed about it and we're standing firm but man it's hard when he's upset with you. Anyone else dealing with this? How do you explain to a kid that sometimes being different is actually a blessing not a curse?

6 comments89 views

Comments(6)

DDerek P.RegularMay 4

The peer pressure thing is real at that age. My approach is we talk about it openly instead of just saying no. Like why does he want to watch it, what's actually in it, what are we concerned about as parents. Sometimes they understand the boundary better when they know the reasoning.

KKevinRegularMay 3

This is tough because you want him to fit in but also want to protect him. I'd suggest letting him watch ONE thing with you so you actually know what it is instead of worrying about it blind. Makes conversations easier.

KKevin M.RegularMay 2

This is tough because you don't want to be the only dad saying no while all his friends are doing it. But 12 is still young enough that you can have real conversations about it. What shows specifically is he after?

BBrandonRegularMay 2

I'm dealing with this same thing right now with my kids. The key I've found is not just saying no but explaining why you're saying no. Give him some agency in the decision even if the answer is still no.

KKevin M.RegularMay 2

At 12 you've got to pick your battles though. Some shows are fine to compromise on. Others you hold the line. What shows are we talking about here?

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TTommyNew DadMay 3

All his friends is the magic phrase that makes parents everywhere cry. But you're the parent, not his friends. Stick to your guns on what you're comfortable with.