Communication with teenagers is probably challenging for most parents. This is certainly because of the numerous physical and emotional changes that kids undergo during their teenage years. According to a survey, almost 72 percent of teens reported feeling stressed about their future, school, or work. Another study published in the Journal of Adolescence states the significance of parent-teen communication in promoting positive development, improved academic success, and overall mental well-being in the long run.
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Thus, focusing on effective communication with kids is also linked with lower levels of risky behaviours and mental health concerns during the teenage years. Not only does it establish trust and understanding, but it also helps in creating a healthy relationship between the parent and child.
Read below this article to explore some of the best tips on how parents could establish an effective communication channel with teens.
5 Tips for Effective Communication with Kids
While engaging in communication with teens can be overwhelming at times, there are several tips that can make your parenting journey easier. Read below to find out.
Active Listening
Listening actively and attentively to your kids is an important aspect when it comes to effective communication. When listening to your teens, give them your full attention, maintain eye contact, and show understanding during the conversations. For example, when your child shares frustrations about school, you can reply with responses such as ‘I guess you are feeling overwhelmed. I am here to listen!’ This will ensure that your teen knows that you are there to listen, understand, and empathise with them in every situation.
Encourage respectful communication
There might be several conflicts or topics that might be challenging to discuss with teens. Even in such situations, it is important for parents to maintain their children’s respect when discussing them. Instead of criticising their opinions and blaming your teen, you might use the term ‘I’ in your responses to show your feelings and that you are genuinely concerned.
Help them face challenges.
The teenage years are full of challenges that might be concerning for their parents as well. Thus, it becomes extremely crucial for parents to interact regularly with their children and help them find solutions to their problems. Besides, you can guide them to think about the consequences of their actions. For example, if your teen is struggling with time management concerns, you might help him by suggesting a daily routine according to their needs.
Be Available
With most parents usually busy with work and household chores nowadays, it has become challenging to give time to their teens. Thus, as parents, you should make time for daily one-on-one conversations with your kids. Whether it’s over breakfast, dinner, during a walk, or before bedtime, taking time for them is indeed needed.
No Sneak Peek
Most parents tend to overlook the fact that giving space to their teenagers is also an important part of nurturing their parent-child relationship. Give them personal space and privacy while simultaneously providing them with the unconditional love and support they seek from you.
Conclusion
Effective communication is an important aspect when it comes to building trust and understanding in the parent-teen relationship. From active listening to respecting their privacy, there are several parenting approaches that can help you nurture this special bond with your kid for a lifetime.
