How to Handle Forgetful Teens

Your teen's forgetfulness might be the result of underdeveloped portions of his brain that don't reach an optimal level until sometime in his early 20s, according to Temple University psychology professor Lawrence Steinberg. Whatever the root cause of your teenager's forgetfulness, the results remain the same: minor to major consequences, which can wreak havoc on his and your world. Instead of living in a state of perpetual uncertainty and inevitable frustration, try the following strategies to tackle forgetfulness and make your lives easier.

Instructions

  1. Model and Reward

    • 1

      Talk to your child about why it's important to remember things. Instead, ask your child what kinds of things happen when someone forgets to do something. If he has trouble thinking of examples, give him some, such as if someone forgets to close the back door the cat can escape or if he doesn't finish his homework, he could get a bad grade. Encourage him to think of examples from his past where he forgot to do something. Avoid using this discussion as a blame session.

    • 2

      Show your child strategies for remembering things. If he's old enough to spell and write or type, teach him the value of list-making. If he has a cell phone, teach him how to set reminder alerts on the phone.

    • 3

      Respond in a positive and encouraging manner if your child forgets. Encouraging statements such as, "That's okay, you'll remember next time" can bolster a child's self esteem.

    • 4

      Praise or otherwise reward your child for remembering his responsibilities as a form of positive reinforcement, offering things like extra privileges and special treats.

    Natural Consequences (For Older Children)

    • 5

      Allow your older child to experience the natural consequences of his forgetfulness, without endangering her health and safety. Natural consequences are appropriate if your older child forgets to clean up after herself in the kitchen. Instead of cleaning up for her, tell her that she can either use her dirty dishes the next time she wants a snack or wash them and put them away herself.

    • 6

      Explain to your child why you are choosing to use natural consequences. Tell her that it's her responsibility to clean up after herself in the kitchen when she gets a snack. If she doesn't take the time to do it, you would normally have to take your time to do it, which you are no longer willing to do.

    • 7

      Follow through with your decision to use natural consequences. Do not back down, or your child will not learn anything from this method.

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