Do you have a teen in your life? Those of us who are in the trenches of parenting eventually have to navigate those teen years. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources to help those of us learning about communicating with teens. We are not in this alone.
This post is made possible with support from the Center for Parent and Teen Communication, part of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. All opinions are my own.
Best Tips for Communicating with Teens
Just as in any relationship (marriage, dating, friendship), communication is key. But the question remains, “How do we best communicate with teens?” Sometimes it seems as if they speak an entirely different language, but in reality, it doesn’t take long to see some similarities between us all. I’ve discovered this with the help of parenting tips from the Center for Parent and Teen Communication – a must for any parent!
The Center for Parent and Teen Communication provides science-based strategies to support healthy family relationships, which is so vital during these years. You’ll be happy to know they offer 100-word, daily parenting tips you can sign up for. I highly recommend it!
There was one short video called Inquire and Listen that really hit home. It was a reminder not to make assumptions, not to rush in to try to fix something. We all want to protect our kids if they are upset or hurt. But what if they are just processing sad news about the world as we do as adults? I’m learning to listen even more now that I have a teenager and WHEN she wants to talk. Sometimes that means a late night. Sometimes it’s while in the car. But I’m there, and I always will be.
There are six (6) incredibly thought-provoking short videos that are on-point for us as parents of teens. They deal with different issues—from spotting their strengths to the difference between being self-interested and selfish. (Oh that was an eye-opening one that I wish all adults would watch.)
Things are surely different than when I was growing up as an 80s kid, and parents seem to be more involved than ever. Let’s use that the best way we can. Take a look at these six short parenting videos and let me know your favorite!
I’m all signed up and headed over to watch those videos now! Thank you for this!