Restarting Conversations with your Teens

If you are a parent of a teenager, you may have experienced some communication challenges with your child. Maybe they don't talk to you as much as they used to, or they seem to avoid or ignore your attempts to connect. Maybe they respond with one-word answers or shrugs, or they get defensive or angry when you try to have a conversation.

You are not alone. Many parents struggle to communicate with their teens, especially in this digital age where screens and devices can create barriers and distractions. But communication is essential for building trust, understanding, and respect between you and your teen. It can also help you prevent or resolve conflicts, support your teen's mental health, and guide them through the challenges of adolescence.

So how can you restart conversations with your teen? Here are some tips that may help:

• Be respectful and empathetic. Remember that your teen is going through a lot of changes and may feel insecure, stressed, or overwhelmed. Try to see things from their perspective and avoid judging, criticizing, or lecturing them. Instead, show them that you care and respect their feelings, opinions, and choices.

• Be curious and interested. Ask open-ended questions that invite your teen to share more about themselves, their interests, their friends, their goals, etc. For example, instead of asking "How was school today?", you could ask "What was the most interesting thing you learned today?" or "What are you working on for your project?" Listen attentively and show genuine interest in what they say.

• Be supportive and encouraging. Praise your teen for their efforts, achievements, and strengths. Acknowledge their challenges and difficulties and offer your help and guidance if they need it. Encourage them to pursue their passions and hobbies and to explore new opportunities. Celebrate their successes and milestones with them.

• Be flexible and adaptable. Understand that your teen may not always be in the mood to talk or may prefer different ways of communicating. Sometimes they may want to text or call you instead of talking face-to-face. Sometimes they may need some space and privacy. Respect their preferences and boundaries and be flexible with your expectations. Let them know that you are always available and willing to talk when they are ready.

• Be fun and playful. Don't forget to have fun with your teen and enjoy spending time with them. Find activities that you both like and do them together. Share jokes, stories, memes, or videos that make you laugh. Play games, watch movies, listen to music, or cook together. Having fun can help you bond with your teen and create positive memories.

  
  

Restarting conversations with your teen may not be easy, but it is possible and rewarding. 

For a fun way to transform your parent - teenager relationship in a healthy way, check out our TEENS pack and get your teens talking openly with you again.