Fun Ways to Make Teens Feel Special

Teens often get a bad rap for being self-centered and having bad attitudes, but it seems good behavior gets overlooked. If your teen is consistently doing what she is supposed to be doing, respecting adults and working hard in school, show her that you recognize her hard work and good attitude every once in a while. Plan something for your teen that makes her feel extra special and appreciated.

  1. Plan a Night Out

    • Take your teen out for a night on the town, just the two of you. Take him to an upscale restaurant, where he will feel like an adult, or let him choose wherever he wants to eat. Show him you are genuinely interested in his life by asking about his social life, and offering up advice without seeming like you are lecturing. Afterward, go see a movie of your teen's choosing. He is sure to appreciate you taking a night out just to check in with him, and let him know you are there no matter how busy life gets.

    Plan a Surprise Party

    • If your teen's birthday is coming up, consider planning a surprise party with all of her friends. Keep her from suspecting anything by telling her she can have a low-key gathering with just a few friends for her birthday this year. Make it extra special by holding the party at a venue that has a dance floor so that she can dance and have a good time with her friends. Hire a deejay and, if possible, a local band that she might like. The look on your teen's face when she sees everyone she cares about there to celebrate her special day will be well worth it.

    Teen-Selected Family Vacation

    • If you have an annual family vacation, consider letting your teen pick the destination this year, within location and budget parameters that you set. Encourage your teen to think about vacation destinations that not only appeal to him, but that also offer activities for any younger siblings, as well as features that would appeal to you and your spouse. Emphasize to your teen that you are handing him a big responsibility because you feel he is mature enough to handle it and you care about him having a good time with the family. Allowing him to bring a friend, especially if he doesn't have siblings close to his age, would be the icing on the cake.

    Plan a Room Makeover

    • If your teen is still stuck with her childhood decor and she is dying for a change, surprise her with a total room makeover. Take her to a hardware store to pick out paint, and talk with her about how to rearrange furniture. Let her pick out a new bed frame, desk and matching decor. Better yet, if you can afford it, hire a professional designer to help your teen create the room of her dreams.

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