James Donaldson on Mental Health - Tips for Communicating With Your Teen

If this sounds familiar, take a deep breath and remind yourself that your child is going through their terrible teens.

It is a phase that will pass, and your job as parent is still vitally important, only the role may have changed slightly.

Here are some tips for navigating the new new terrain and learning how to talk to teenagers: 1.

Listen If you are curious about what’s going on in your teen’s life, asking direct questions might not be as effective as simply sitting back and listening.

Kids are more likely to be open with their parents if they don’t feel pressured to share information.

Remember even an offhand comment about something that happened during the day is their way of reaching out, and you’re likely to hear more if you stay open and interested — but not prying.

Validate their feelings It is often our tendency to try to solve problems for our kids, or downplay their disappointments .

But saying something like “They weren’t right for you anyway” after a romantic disappointment can feel dismissive.

Instead, show kids that you understand and empathize by reflecting their sentiments back: “Wow, that does sound difficult.” 3.

Show trust Teens want to be taken seriously, especially by their parents.