BJ Bench, a father of two and guardian of his 16-year-old cousin, will discuss what he had to learn to be the father-figure that his cousin needed. He’ll discuss the importance of being a part of his cousin’s life, setting limits on technology and training her to recognize concerning behaviors in other people, particularly boys.
Finally, BJ will talk about why dads shouldn’t be afraid to have difficult conversations about uncomfortable subjects with their teens.
POINT #1: Dads Must Be Adaptable
* BJ and his wife have two biological daughters (ages 4 and 1) and took in his cousin after she was placed in the foster care system. BJ’s cousin is now 16-years-old and has lived with BJ and his family for two-and-a-half years.
* Getting an “instant tween” was tough and BJ and his wife were not prepared for the hormones and the drama. However, BJ quickly stepped into a father role.