Asparents,one of thebiggestchallenges isknowinghow tocommunicateeffectively with ateenager. Ateenager is atanage where theyaredeveloping theiridentity anddiscoveringwho theywant to be, whichcancreate a lotoftension in thehome. Forthisreason,talking to ateenager is notalwayseasy.
Here are some tips to help parents communicate effectively with their teenagers.
ACTIVE LISTENING
First, it is important for parents to listen to their children. This means that parents should listen with an open mind to what the teen is saying, and not simply react with prejudice. Listening with an open mind means that parents need to avoid interrupting their child while they are talking and let them finish talking before giving their opinion.
EXERCISING PATIENCE
Second, parents should try to remember that the adolescent is in a difficult developmental stage. This means that parents should try not to be too strict or demanding of the adolescent. Instead of demanding that the adolescent do things, sometimes it works better for parents to offer suggestions and support. This will help your child feel secure and valued.
SET LIMITS
Third, parents should try to set clear boundaries. This means that parents should define clear boundaries between what is acceptable and what is not. This will help the adolescent to understand certain guidelines and to respect them. Setting clear boundaries will also help the adolescent feel paradoxically safe and secure.
COMMUNICATION
Fourth, as parents, let's try to have an open dialogue with your child. This means trying to engage in honest and open communication with your teen. This will help parents better understand their child and establish a greater connection with him or her. This will also help the teen feel understood and accepted.
BE AWARE OF YOUR EMOTIONS
Lastly, watch their emotions. This means that parents should try to be aware of their own emotions when talking to their child. This will help parents to have a healthy conversation with the teen and not to yell or use offensive language with the teen in heated discussions.
Inconclusion,parents shouldlisten withanopenmind,remember that theadolescentis inadifficultstage ofdevelopment andestablishclearlimits. From the specialized psycho-pedagogical office of Logos International School, a leading school in Las Rozas de Madrid, we are at your service to help you with whatever you need.
