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Tips for Handling the Teen Idol Craze

By , About.com Guide

Let's face it, at some point each one of our teenagers will drive us crazy with their adoration of a teen idol. We did it, our parents before us did it and the cycle will continue through the end of time. Here are some tips to handle the teen idol craze:

Check them out.
You have a world of resources on the Net, you can get information on any teen idol with a minimum of fuss. If you don't approve, then let your teenager know in a respectful, but stern, fashion. If the CDs have parental warnings, remember many can come edited. Ask for the options at the store.

Wall tack!
If you have a teenager that must have every poster in the world up on their walls, ceilings, doors, etc. ~ use wall tack! Tape can rip the drywall and push pins leave holes.

Set your expectations.
Let your teen in on just how far you'll go with the teen idol craze. If you don't want half nude posters on the wall, then you need to let them know before the poster is bought. If they are disturbing everyone else in the house with their music, set up an action plan on keeping down the volume.

Use it to teach them money management.
CD collections, posters and concert tickets cost money. Suggest a new responsibility for your teenager to take over to make a few extra bucks so they can earn it.

Share the memories.
Yes, they will think that you are so old, but who cares? Share your memories about how you drove your parents crazy with your teen idols and music. This makes a great family dinner conversation. It also adds to the back and forth family humor that will last for years to come, and can be cherished forever.

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