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COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR TEENAGER
Adolescence can be a very difficult time for teenagers. The changes that occur during teen years can be confusing for you and your son or daughter. Here are some tips that can help your child during the teenage years:
- Spend family time with your teenager. Even though many preteens and teens are more interested in friends, this does not mean they are not interested in family!
- Pend time alone with teenager. Even if he or she does not want time alone with you, take a moment here and there to remind your child that your “door is always open”; you are always there if he or she needs to talk. Remind your child often of this.
- When your adolescent talks:
1. Pay attention.
2. Watch as well as listen.
3. Try not to interrupt.
4. Ask your child to “break it down” to be sure you understand him or her.
5. If you don’t have time to listen right now, set a time when you do have time.
6. It’s okay to disagree with him or her, but disagree respectfully, not insultingly.
- Respect your teenager’s feelings. Don’t dismiss his or her feelings or opinions as silly or senseless. You may not always be able to help when your child is upset about something, but you can say,. “I understand” or “help me to understand.” That’s very important during teenage years.
- It’s okay to get angry; children at this age can be very frustrating! However, it is important to be upset with actions not character.
Example; “I get upset when I find clothes all over the floor” is better than “You’re a slob.” Try these hints to see if it helps you and your teenager communicate better. | |
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