Three Ways to Talk to Your Teenager

When it comes to parenting, the teenage years are likely among the hardest you deal with. They don’t really feel like talking to their parents a lot and can be stubborn at times. These times are full of change for both the child and the parent. If you are having some trouble, here are some tips to help talk to your teens.

1. Listen, Listen, Listen

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Your teen likely has a ton more new things they are dealing with in life than you are. Thus, you should let them do most of the talking and do your best to listen. Teens often want their parents to just be someone to vent to about their problems, listen to their stories and do so with patience and acceptance. They need to know they can share issues with you without judgement and that you will listen to them.

2. Avoid Lecturing

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If teenagers don’t like one thing, it is being lectured to. All day long they deal with teachers and professors lecturing them and they do not want to deal with that at home as well. Even if something about the conversation makes you want to give them a lecture or speak out, don’t do it and wait until they are done speaking to intervene, and keep it short when/if you do. Express your concerns, but keep it short and respectful without lecturing.

3. Treat Them With Respect

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The last thing teens want is to be babied or talked down to by their parents or guardians. It is important not to dismiss or belittle their opinions or thoughts, feelings or opinions. Do not judge your teen, we’ve have all been teens and have done stupid things from time to time. Treating them and talking to them like an equal will go a long way in them trusting you more and being more willing to speak to you about their issues in the future.