Parenting Teens - August 29, 2012

Day 13 - Love Language - Affirming Words

Speaking affirming words is one of the five love languages.

• the words we speak to our teenagers can stay with them for the rest of their lives • tell them of your love and pride in them affirm them (not just when they please you; not just for their achievements) • affirm their looks • aim at five positive comments for every one negative comment • find things for which to praise them • loving words build confidence and affect their attitudes • loving words can be spoken and written

Question:
Which of the five expressions of love do you find hardest to show to your children?

Related Topics: Acceptance, Communication, Family, Love, Teens | More Messages from Parenting Teens | Download Audio

From Series: "Parenting Teenagers"

Study Guide

More Messages From Parenting Teens...

Powered by Series Engine


We look at the role of reflecting back, responding appropriately and taking a long-term view in healthy communications.7. Reflect back what they have said

  • say back to them what you think they are trying to express, particularly their feelings use some of their own words and phrases

8. Respond appropriately

  • give guidance and reassurance
  • they are likely to remember our words for years to come

9. Take a long-term view

  • sometimes any meaningful communicationwith teenagers can be a big struggle
  • difficulties are usually the result of a phase they’re going through
  • try to create the conditions for conversation to become easier, at mealtimes; spending time with them doing what they enjoy; using their love language
  • if worried, seek professional help and/or medical support

Role play with another adult.  Have them share a typical teenage problem with you, and reflect back what they’ve said.  Go back and forth for a few minutes, then switch.  What was easy or hard about this?