Parenting Teens - September 6, 2012

Day 21 - Effective Communications Strategies Part III

Parenting Teenagers

We look at the role of reflecting back, responding appropriately and taking a long-term view in healthy communications.

7. Reflect back what they have said • say back to them what you think they are trying to express, particularly their feelings use some of their own words and phrases

8. Respond appropriately • give guidance and reassurance • they are likely to remember our words for years to come

9. Take a long-term view • sometimes any meaningful communicationwith teenagers can be a big struggle • difficulties are usually the result of a phase they're going through • try to create the conditions for conversation to become easier, at mealtimes; spending time with them doing what they enjoy; using their love language • if worried, seek professional help and/or medical support

Question:
Role play with another adult. Have them share a typical teenage problem with you, and reflect back what they’ve said. Go back and forth for a few minutes, then switch. What was easy or hard about this?

From Series: "Parenting Teenagers"

Study Guide

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Home is a place for fun!

  • As parents we may need to lighten up
  • Teenagers want to be where the fun is
  • Can they bring friends home? Consider creating some teenager-friendly space in your house
  • Have relaxed family meal times
  • Laugh together
  • The value of family vacations

What changes would you like to make to your family’s home life, to make sure you can have fun together?