With the ever changing time, ideologies and beliefs are bound to alter which apparently will create a gap between two generations. Though we can't uproot this gap but efforts can be put in to ensure that this generation gap doesn't affect the relation between parents and kids. There should be a feeling of harmony and complete understanding among the generations.
And this certainly isn't impossible provided both parents and kids put in a little effort and join hands in bridging the Generation Gap.
Steps Parents Must Take
Be Flexible: Parents must understand that time keeps on changing and one must try and accommodate these changes so as to walk in pace with the world around. Had human beings not been flexible to changes, we probably would have been still living in the cave-men age only. Keep yourself flexible enough to adapt to the good changes, this will help you in being in sync with your kids.
Model the expected behavior: If you want your kids to abide by discipline, then you will have to make an effort of modeling a similar behavior. Kids learn from parents only, so if your actions are different from what you preach, there is no chance of your kids paying any heed to your advice.
Try to be a part of your kids world: This doesn't mean you have to stalk them, which obviously won't be an appreciative act. To get involved in their lives, you will have to stay updated with the world around. Know of the new technology, gadgets and the trends influencing modern standard of living.
Be considerate of their decisions and choices: You don't have to be judgmental all the time. It would be better to understand things from the perspective of your kids. Don't forget the time when you were young and had your share of differences with your parents. Respect your child's decisions and choices and if you feel things are heading into wrong direction, make them understand the same in a calm manner. Being harsh can only worsen the matter.
Keep the line of communication open & Clear: This is very vital so that the kids can reach out to their parents for anything without the fear of being judged. They must have a feeling that their parents are their best allies. Once they treat you as a friend, they will never shy or hesitate in discussing their life with you openly.
Freedom with discipline: The curbing of freedom by parents is what forces the kids to rebel most of the time. Most parents fear that if they give freedom to kids they will certainly get spoiled. However, freedom with discipline will never make them cross the limit. Set them free but always keep an eye just to ensure that they aren't misusing the given freedom. And if they do so, be kind enough to accept their mistakes and show them the right path.
Steps Kids Must take
Acknowledge parents experience: Teenagers can't rule over the fact that their parents certainly have more experience of life and they are the true guides and philosophers. Respect their experience and make an effort to seek out the benefits of their year long life experiences which will help you in living your life in a better way.
Seek guidance and advice: Come what, but parents never deject their kids. Despite all the shortcomings, you will always have your parents by your side even if the rest of the world turns away from you. And this makes them your best source of guidance and advice. You can always reach out to them whenever in a state of fix. And once you do this, they will also feel valued.
Indulge in fair arguments: When there exist a difference in ideologies, conflicts are bound to happen. However, healthy arguments are always better than the heated ones that always end up marring a relationship. You will also have your share of conflicts with your parents, but make sure to put your points in a way that won't make you appear rebellious. Understand their opinion as well and never lose your cool.
Accept the good and rule out the bad: It's true that your generation is way different from that of your parents. But every generation has some good and bad to offer. There is no harm in accepting what's good for you and ruling out the wicked ones.
If parents and kids can make these little changes, bridging generation gap would become quite easy and the relation will also witness a new lease of life!