There are five stages
of grief, loss and mourning
in the dying, death, and bereavement process:
Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression, and
Acceptance
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Kubler-Ross' stages do not apply with your your adolescent child, so be prepared to set aside the first four stages. You may have to control communications as well.

Certain times are not appropriate for talking to your child. There is no sense pushing things during those times, since you will not succeed. You will only cause him to distance himself from you if you talk to your child at the wrong time - even if you have the best of intentions.

Don't talk to a child who does not want to speak to you while rebelling. Respect his need for space.

Don't talk to a child who claims to be in love and says that you don't understand. Yes, love is a four-letter word in some frum circles, and your child knows it. Nonetheless, if your child has selected a mate, agree and show full acceptance.

You may discuss "safe" issues with your child. Listen to your children and to his needs patiently. You may offer choices - on the condition that the child knows that his is free to accept or reject the choice cheerfully and without recriminations. In this way, they may be willing to return and ask your non-binding opinion next time.

The older your child, the more it is necessary for your child to make the final decision, with the knowledge that you will not criticize him for it.

You may not like the fact that your child has grown up, but this is the case.