Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 26 to 30.
Becoming independent is an essential part of a child's journey to adulthood. To make this journey successful, children need freedom to try new things. But they still need your guidance and support too.
Your love and support are essential for your child's self-esteem. Young people who feel good about themselves often have more (26) _____________to discover who they are and what they want to do with their lives.
Try to (27) _____________ in to your child's feelings. It might help to remember that your child could be confused and upset by the physical, social and emotional changes of adolescence. Your child needs your emotional guidance and stability during this time.
Clear family rules about behaviour, communication and socialising will help your child understand where the limits are and what you expect. Rules will also help you be consistent (28) _____________how you treat your child. Once the rules are in place, apply them consistently.
Your family rules are likely to change as your child develops. As children get more mature, they can make a bigger contribution to the rules and the consequences for breaking them. Involving your child in developing rules helps him to understand the principles behind them. Every family has different rules. You can talk with your child about this and explain that his friends might have different rules, or a different number of rules.
(29) _____________you set the limits too strictly, your child might not have enough room to
grow and try new experiences. This period is a learning curve for both of you. Be prepared for some trial and error.
Younger teenagers might think they're ready to make their own decisions, but they often haven't developed the (30) _____________skills they need to handle significant responsibilities without your help. It can be a good idea to explain to your younger child why younger and older children are given different responsibilities.
(Adapted from: https://raisingchildren.net.au)