Their struggles are unique to their age group which bridges childhood and adulthood. Besides sports, music, and hi-tech toys, what do you suppose makes teens happy? Most say that family and friends make them happiest.  So what can you, as a parent, do to provide support and encouragement?

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Here are 10 tips for hands-on parenting.

1. Encourage and support them– don't push and control.  Lend a hand if they need and want it, otherwise give them room to grow.

2. Give them their privacy. It is NOT cool to listen in on telephone conversations or enter their rooms without knocking.

3. Listen actively. This isn't a multi-tasking activity. Stop what you're doing, face them, and hear what they saying.

4. Money is important to them. Help them get a job and keep it. Give an allowance or pay for work at home.

5. Help them explore their purpose in life. Whether it's through spirituality, faith or a philosophical belief, this shores them up in rough times.

6. Allow them to control their own destiny. Encourage them to set goals for the future. Start small and work up. Part-time job to owning a vehicle for example.

7. Be amiable to their friends. This has the effect of meeting them and hanging out at home.

8. Communicate clearly! Don't hint. What exactly do you want from them? What exactly must they do? What exactly do they expect from you?

9. Praise them, where possible. Never criticize. Acceptance lays the ground for trust and love.

10. Be the role model for fine behavior. Everyone needs a hero!

–From the Editors of DriverEd.com