Knowing you’re there to help them work through any problems (rather than tell them what to do) helps them feel supported. If your teen is anxious about something, try working with them to figure it out. Ask them what they think they should do and what might happen. Try out the plan and then chat together about how it went. Be curious – what went well, what was a surprise and what would they like to try next time? This will help them remember how they solved the problem, so next time they’ll have more confidence.
At this age, the part of the brain that deals with future thinking isn’t fully formed yet, so by helping them think through problems and consider the possible outcomes of their actions, you’ll be helping them develop their brain.