10 Tips for Communicating with Your Teen Glenn Taylor, Ph.D

First of all, do not wait until serious problems arise. It could be too late.

Just because your teen appears to be doing well on the surface, does not mean there are no issues going on beneath the surface that could be serious. Our kids live in an age of moral corruption and immediate access to destructive information on social media. Never assume, ask.

Pick your timing. It's not good to launch into controversial conversations carelessly. Try to choose times when they are not exhausted or hungry, or when they have plans.

Find a place of quietness, with no other children or TV. Also, if they happen to be using earbuds, ask that they be removed.

Try not to appear upset or angry. You could say, “We don't get to be together much, just want to chat.”

If you go in with guns blazing, they are likely to withdraw or shoot back! Don't do it! This is a time for them to gain trust in you. The quality of your next talk may depend on this one.

Do not allow them to become argumentative or to control the conversation.

If you are dealing with sensitive subject matter, go light! Only cover what seems to be comfortable for both of you.

End your talk in a positive way. Tell them of something you really admire about them, or what they have done to help around the house.

Give them a hug, and say something like, “I've enjoyed our time together, and I'm excited about our next chat.