Parenting Teens - September 5, 2012

Day 20 - Effective Communications Strategies Part II

We look at the role of Paying Attention to Their World, Listening for Feelings & Avoiding Interruptions in effective communications.

4. Show an interest in the world of your teenageres) • ask questions about their interests and listen to their answers • treat them as unique individuals with their own points of view and personal tastes

5. Listen for feelings • allow them to express negative emotions • don't rush in with solutions right away

6. Try to avoid interrupting • the average person listens for only seventeen seconds • resist the desire to be defensive or to butt in and correct

Question:
What affirming words can you share with your teenager this week? What one-to-one time can you plan?

See the attached worksheets in the study guide

Related Topics: Communication, Family, 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?