Tips on How To Talk to Your Teen

Many teens don’t want to spend time talking about their life with their parents. However, there are times when important conversations need to happen. Having a discussion with your kids about drugs, alcohol, pregnancy and abortion Illinois may seem overwhelming for both of you. Here are some tips to help make your talk to your teen more comfortable. 

1. Make a Plan

You don’t need to have a script written out, but it’s a good idea to know what you want to talk about. Plan how you want to approach these subjects, and think of the key points you want to make. It’s a good idea to be prepared for any questions they may ask so you aren’t caught off guard. 

2. Listen First

Give your teen your full attention when you speak with them. Always put down your phone, turn off the TV and listen when they talk. Offer your response or opinion after they have finished what they are saying. When teens feel like they are heard, they are more likely to open up more. Usually, it’s best not to try to fix the problem because teens want someone to listen without being judgemental or critical.

3. Keep Calm

Your teen looks to you as their support. Keep your emotions in check during talks because your child may think they have upset or hurt you, and avoid being so open in the future. If your child comes to you for help, try to manage your anger or frustration of the situation and focus on how you can help them. 

4. Tell Them About Your Experiences

Teens aren’t looking for a lecture. Approaching sensitive topics by providing your personal experience allows them to relate to you better. If they want to ask questions, answer honestly. Maybe your actions were an excellent solution to the problem, or possibly you can explain how you wish you had done something differently. It’s important to realize that your advice is for guidance, not something they have to mimic in their own life. 

5. Make a Day of It

If sitting in a quiet room to talk isn’t your teen’s idea of a good time, move the conversation somewhere else. Take a walk to the park, get some ice cream or play miniature golf and use that time to bond and have fun. Gradual conversation over that time may open some doors to shy teens. 

6. Follow Up Occasionally

Once you’ve had your conversation with your teen, it’s a good idea to check in with them again. Sometimes they may have thought of questions they didn’t ask, or you may have thought of other ideas to add; this gives you both an opportunity to address that. It also lets your teen know that you are still available for them if they want to approach you about another topic in the future. 

Tackling sensitive topics together creates a stronger relationship between you and your teen. Not only does it allow you to discuss issues necessary for their safety, but it opens doors for future conversations.