Most teens feel "different" in one way or another. Parents may understand their teens, but sometimes not in a way their children want them to. Here are some things to remember that may help parents understand their teens and help them to fit in:

+Remember, at this age friendships are very important. School is a teen's home away from home and parents should be prepared to feel a little neglected at times.

+Understand and accept that teens can be a different person when they are at home or at school, when they are with family or with their friends.

+Allow teens to keep some of their thoughts to themselves. Whether they want to communicate or not, keep the lines open at all times.

+Remind young teens that everyone doesn't have to like them and that socializing is a skill that gets better with practice.