But, MY Teen Tells Me Everything. (Uh-huh.)

Why are we talking about teens? Because every single one of your tiny bundles of joy are going to grow up to be one, and you might as well know what you're getting into. Trust me, you're going to want to know this stuff.

In 35 Things Your Teen Won't Tell You, So I Will, Ellen Pober Rittberg gives us some tactics to use with our teens. Some of them seem pretty common sense, like Rule 10, Use your approval and disappointment, which I think parents generally do without thinking about it. Your child does something you don't like? You disapprove, right? But some of her other ideas, like Choose your battles wisely and Give your child meaningful chores, are really smart and provide good food for thought.

It makes all the difference in your relationship with your teen if you are an Auto-No parent or one that really listens before deciding. And whether you really need them to come home because their part in taking care of the household is important or just a token job that can be ignored.

While reading the book, I was reminded of the times I took at face value what my own teen said, just wanting to believe what she told me instead of looking a little deeper to see what really might be going on. It's kind of their job at that age to create a secret life and figure out how to take care of themselves. Any parent will find this book helpful in navigating the difficult waters of giving your fully grown kid enough room to find their way and enough rules to keep them safe. -Leah

Find 35 Things YourTeen Won't Tell You, So I  Will by Ellen Pober Rittberg from our affiliate Amazon