10-16-2022
Encourage Open Communication
Does your teen just shrug when you ask, "How was school today?" That's pretty normal for teens, say experts. Many don't respond well to general questions. And they'd rather talk to their friends than their parents.
But the cost of poor communication between parents and teens is high. Kids who don't talk enough with their parents tend to make poor choices—academically and socially.
Here are some ideas to keep communication flowing:
- Slow your life down. Review your schedule. Look for ways to make time to talk with your teen and time to listen patiently—every day.
- Take advantage of casual moments to talk. Don't insist on a formal conference at the kitchen table. Grab time while you're washing dishes together or in the car. Drop in to your teen's room for a bedtime chat.
- Start conversations with lighter topics before diving into heavy ones.
- Be ready to talk when your teen is. Drop what you're doing and offer your full attention.
- Listen without rushing to judgment. Teens who don't feel safe telling parents bad news may not. That can lead to far worse problems.
- Ask specific questions. "What was the best thing that happened to you today?"
- Ask your teen to explain an issue to a younger sibling. This may motivate your student to participate in family conversations.
- Admit and apologize to your teen when you're wrong. This not only breaks down barriers, it gives teens permission to acknowledge their mistakes.
Brought to you by:
Webster County Schools
[School Success Ideas for Families]
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