The Do’s and Don’ts of Parent-Teen Communication

There are numerous stereotypes surrounding teenagers and their perceived lack of communication.

Unfortunately, far too many of those stereotypes ring true. If your teenager isn’t exactly an open book, you’re certainly not alone.

However, your relationship doesn’t need to be that way.

It’s important to foster healthy communication with your teen, not only to maintain a strong relationship but to make sure you understand their feelings and continue to guide them as they navigate changes in their lives.

Read More: “Resilience Helps Teens Thrive. Learn How To Build Resilient Teens”

While communicating with your teenager might seem easier said than done, it’s not impossible.

Let’s cover a few of the dos and don’ts of parent-teen communication so you can make the most of your efforts.

Do: Be an Active Listener

As a parent, you undoubtedly want to offer your teen advice, guide them, and share your knowledge. Those are all good things, but make sure you’re also listening.

One of the biggest reasons why teens don’t open up to their parents is that they don’t feel heard.

Are you often distracted when your teen is trying to tell you something? Do you take them seriously or make a joke out of the things they’re trying to say? Do you validate their feelings?

Being an active listener lets your teen know you respect them and that their feelings matter. It can make them want to open up to you more.

Don’t: Try to Fix Everything

No parent wants to see their child struggle or fail. However, it’s a part of life.

Read More: “5 Tips To Engaging With Your Teen”

One of the worst things you can do for your teen is try to jump in whenever they have a problem and take care of it for them.

Can you guide them, offer suggestions, and provide support?

Of course. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t let them fail sometimes.

Failure leads to growth and builds resilience. Let your teen know they’re not alone, but make sure you’re not trying to solve all of their problems for them.

Do: Give Praise

Do you find that you’re only pointing out something your teen does when it’s “wrong?” You might think that this is a way to guide and steer them in the right direction.

However, it’s also important to point out the things they’re doing right.

Teenagers are going through a difficult stage of life. They’re trying to figure out who they are and who they want to be while dealing with bodily changes, new relationships, and so much more.

When your teen does something worthy of attention and praise, don’t be afraid to give it. It will boost their confidence and make them want to stay on that positive track.

Don’t: Overreact

It’s understandable for the “parent alarm” to go off when your teen says something that catches you off guard.

Read More: “5 Reasons Your Teen Doesn’t Talk To You”

You might react quickly, causing you to judge, accuse, or share your concerns right away.

Overreacting to the things your teenager says will likely cause them to stop talking. They’ll close off and be less likely to be vulnerable around you.

Instead, stay calm no matter what they say.

Work through issues together. This will make them more comfortable approaching you, especially when they have something serious to talk about.

Do: Work With a Professional

Sometimes, teen counseling or family therapy can be the best thing you can do for your relationship with your teenager. Healthy communication doesn’t always come easily, and getting a bit of help along the way can make a big difference.

Teen counseling will provide your teenager with the opportunity to explore their feelings in a safe and supportive setting. It will help them learn how to prioritize their mental well-being from an early age.

Family therapy, on the other hand, can help you both work out any potential issues that might be causing problems while fostering healthy communication and a strong connection.

You and your teen don’t have to fall into communication stereotypes.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.