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What StandInParent actually says.

No teasers and no highlight reel. These are full answers to situations parents are living right now. Read one, then tell StandInParent your version.

Teen · Sports

My 15-year-old wants to quit soccer after 8 years

The CallBack your wife on this, with one clear condition: he finishes whatever season is already paid for, and once it's over, he has to replace the time with something else. He can quit soccer, but he can't just retire to his room.

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Teen · Trust

My 16-year-old lied about where she was Friday night

The CallPull back the sleepovers for a couple of weeks, but leave the phone alone. You want a consequence tied to going out, and you never want to cut the line she needs to call you when a party goes sideways.

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College

Our college freshman wants to come home

The CallDon't go get him, and don't let him quit mid-semester. Give him a clear goalpost: he commits through Thanksgiving, takes two specific steps to plug in, and then you'll sit down and look at real options together.

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Tween · Phones & social media

My 12-year-old says she's the only one without Snapchat

The CallHold the line until thirteen, but acknowledge how much it stinks to feel left out. Make sure she can still text her friends normally so she isn't totally cut off.

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