Tips for Parents
How to Talk to Your Teens
The Midland Coalition held focus groups with local teenagers about the best ways for their parents to talk to them about serious issues that they face.
They wanted parents to know that they do want you to talk to them about issues like underage drinking, sex, friends and choices for the future but be careful and thoughtful in the way you approach them to discuss these topics.
Below is a compilation of the teen’s best tips for parents on how to talk to your teens:
|
The Do’s |
The Don’ts |
|
· Listen · Talk in a normal voice · Stay calm · Watch your tone, body language and facial expressions – sometimes they feel judged · Talk to them one on one · Seize moments when your kids have nothing going on to invite them to do something · Be prepared for answers you may not expect · Ask open ended questions and let them talk |
· Don’t be judgmental · Don’t scream · Don’t say “I Told You So…” · Never talk to them about serious issues in front of their friends – unless they bring it up · Don’t threaten · Don’t be a victim by asking question like “Don’t you love me?” · Don’t use what they say against them
|