Conflict with 16 year old DD

[rociodelmarmum]

Divorced Mum, 2 teenage DDs. DD2 did well in GSCSs and was on course to do A-Levels, but my ex (absent Dad for 2 years with new girlfriend) got involved and pushed a hairdressing apprenticeship idea. DD is moody (naturally at this age) and not suited to this type of work. The arguments have been fierce as she refused to continue at her new school last week (One day in, uniform purchased etc) Dad wrote email for her to say she wasn't returning (didn't tell me) and now she is waiting for an apprenticeship. Dad's new girlfriend has fixed her up with a week's work in the salon where she has her hair done. DD, not speaking to me, only told me on way out this morning what she is doing today. I am losing battle. Any suggestions Mums???? Thank you

Well it’s a gone deal isn’t it. You let her crack on with the apprenticeship.

*done

What does she want to do? At 16, I think it's her decision. You can guide but you have to let her decide. If she realises later that she has made the wrong choice, it won't be too late for her to change direction.

My 17yo packed in sixth form and started an apprenticeship in January, learnt a lot about life in general, particularly in relation to a dead end job.
She is now in college doing her Alevels. There is mpre than one route through life.

How was it decided what and where she would do her 6th form studies?

Maybe carrying on at a school abs having to wear uniform was not what she wanted at this stage. My dd is doing A levels, but was adamant she wanted to attend a 6th form college rather than the closer school. Maybe your dd would prefer to do A levels or a btec at a college?

Anyway it has to be her decision. She may find a real love for hairdressing and make a career of it. It’s actually not a terrible choice and it’s pretty flexible.