By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: June 30, 2018
Originally Published: April 18, 2015
Should we consider taking time off when our kids are teens instead of when they’re little? It sounds a bit funny, but as Jennifer Lee explores, increased parental involvement during the teenage years might actually be more beneficial than during the toddler stage. A new study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family suggests that simply spending more time with kids doesn’t necessarily guarantee better outcomes for them. This revelation was a relief for many working parents, but it also sparked discussion about how to navigate the balance between work and family life.
What’s particularly interesting is how this study highlights the significance of time spent with teenagers. Jennifer notes: “There was just one key exception involving one key variable at one key time in a child’s life: adolescence.” The findings revealed that the more quality time mothers spent with their teenagers, the less likely those teens were to engage in delinquent behaviors—ranging from minor fibs to serious offenses.
Take, for example, the recent news about Mike Davidson, the CFO of a major company, who made headlines by stepping down to devote more time to his middle-school daughter. Some online comments poked fun at the situation—what if she didn’t want her dad around all the time? However, psychologist Rachel Green has authored a compelling book, The Age of Growth: Insights into the New Science of Adolescence, which discusses a second wave of brain development during these years. This period is crucial for learning and self-discovery, as teens delve into everything from playing instruments to exploring literature.
Jennifer further elaborates on the study’s findings: “[Researchers] discovered that engaged time with both parents can have a positive impact during adolescence, leading to reduced behavioral issues, improved math performance, decreased substance use, and lower delinquency rates.” In simpler terms, more parental presence could mean more learning and less partying, which sounds like a win-win.
But let’s be real—most workplaces don’t recognize the need for parental leave when kids are older, let alone for newborns. As Jennifer points out, this timing is especially challenging for parents who might be in their peak earning years and facing rising college costs. When asked what ideal policies he would endorse, Dr. Green suggested: “Imagine a work culture where employers voluntarily, or even mandatorily, allowed parents a few afternoons off each year to spend quality time with their older children.” Honestly, who wouldn’t want to sneak out of work for an afternoon of fun with their teens? That sounds like a rebellious act I could get behind!
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In summary, while the idea of taking time off for toddlers may seem natural, research suggests that spending time with your teens can be equally, if not more, impactful. As parents, we should consider how we can support our children during their adolescent years, even if that means shaking up our traditional views on parental leave.