Teenagers are a whole different breed all on their own; they are neither fully dependent on you nor are they completely self-reliant (you're working on them learning to drive at this very minute...), and require a different form of parenting.
A type of parenting that involves you turning a blind eye to a lot of their antics and picking battles as and when they occur.
But before you despair about the fact that you'll have to deal with their tantrums and door slamming for the next eight years (or more...), have a look at our very useful 'tips'...
1. Invest in a really good pair of headphones
Mainly to drown out the DREADFUL music they insist on blaring in their bedroom...
2. Don’t question their reality TV viewing
Pick the battles that are worth fighting... Kim Kardashian is NOT worth the three-day silent treatment.
3. Constantly remind yourself that you can get your own back when you’re old and grey
You are so insisting on the MOST expensive nursing home ever... or you’ll simply ask to live with them.
4. Teach them to use the washing machine themselves
Their endless supply of clothes means you are FOREVER washing their dirty underwear.
5. Add them as a friend on Facebook
So you know EXACTLY what they get up to when you’re not around... or maybe you don't want to know!
6. Turn a blind eye to their floordrobe
You’ll spend two hours giving out to them, they spend hours cleaning it and you’ll both have to do it ALL over again the following week. Just close the door.
7. Don’t judge their taste in music
That’s just asking for trouble.
8. Never let them go hungry...
Have your fridge constantly stocked with pizza and crisps or face the wrath of a hangry teen.
9. Don't borrow their clothes without asking (if you're lucky enough to fit into them)
Unless you don't mind battling through WW3...
10. Pay someone to teach them to drive as soon as you can
Otherwise you'll be a taxi for them and their friends for the next five years...
