This does not mean they are irresponsible. It means they are teens. A friendly reminder doesn't have to be a big deal. Use your sense of humor and remind with your mouth shut. Point, use charades, or write a note. If you have to say something, ask, "What did we agree to that you have forgotten?"

7. Adults need to be kind and firm while holding teens accountable -- once they have agreed upon a plan. It is just as easy to be kind while reminding as it is to be unkind -- actually it is easier, because everyone feels better and the job gets done without a power struggle. Understanding that it is easier and more effective is the hard part. Where did adults every get the crazy idea that in order to make teens do better, first they have to make them feel worse.

8. Parents don't teach their children problem-solving skills through family meetings and individual barnstorming sessions.

9. Parents don't help children learn time management skills through involving them in the creation of routine charts. The key word is "involving them." Read related articles: Parenting Your Teenagers, The Teenager and the Gorilla

10. Parents give their children too many things and then wonder why they fail to be appreciative -- and instead just want more, more, and more.

11. Parents don't know how to say, "I love you, and the answer is no."

12. Parents are more interested in short term results than long-range results. For example, I'll make you do your homework now - even if it means you will never do your best because you are too busy rebelling. Find Tips and Tools of Communication for Parents with Teens.