TIPS FOR TALKING WITH TEENS:

Talking with teens has always been tricky. But the age of social media has changed the dynamic of communication––they may talk more with their thumbs, and less with their mouths.

 

Tip #1––Talk For Your Teen’s Sake, Not For Yours

 

Tip #2––Show Genuine Interest

 

Tip #3––Ask a Question About What Your Teen Shared

 

Tip #4––Be Okay With Laughing

 

Tip #5––Only Give Your Opinion When Asked For It

 

Tip #6––Ask Questions That Require More Than “Yes” or “No” Answers

 

Tip #7––Don’t Get Discouraged if One Conversation Topic Falls Flat

 

Tip #8––Keep Practicing

 

Conversations with your teen are important opportunities to help them develop a communication style that can get to the heart of their issues and deepen your relationship with them. It all begins with your ability to listen. Listen to what your teen is saying and respond in such a way that encourages, not discourages, future conversations. When having a discussion, don’t correct, don’t tell them how to say it better, and don’t tell them how they can say it differently. Don’t tell them, show them! Create the conversation they long for and they will come back for more. In a world where no one listens, be the one who always gives an ear to your teen. As the Bible says––be slow to anger, slow to speak, and quick to listen.