Teenagers sit on the edge between childhood and adulthood. Sometimes parents feel as if their teens are aliens. Teenagers are just growing up and still want to connect with their parents.
Clear communication with your teens is absolutely essential. Research shows that teens who often eat dinner with their parents, (five or more times a week) were least likely to be on drugs, depressed or in trouble with the law. In addition, teens from these families are more likely to do well in school.
The most important ingredient to get through the storms of teen years is to set aside time to talk with them.
Tips for talking with your teens:
- It is essential to continue to talk often with your teens so you can guide them to solve problems, make good decisions.
- Schedule regular family time. Do things together one-on-one. Good times often bring about conversations and wonderful memories.
Be patient. Don’t force the issue. Let them know you are available to talk. Treat your teens with the same respect you would have them treat you. Remember, you are the role model.- Teens continue to need parents’ love and attention. Show them you are interested by being attentive and by using open-ended responses because they convey acceptance.
- Your tone of voice is extremely important. Pay attention to your feelings and take a break if you need to.
- Parents influence their teens through open and honest communication. It is very essential to listen to what your teens have to say.