One of the simplest things we can do...

🔍 Research indicates that only 1 in 10 teenagers feels comfortable opening up to their parents, highlighting a widespread challenge for many families.

Parents often fall into common pitfalls when their children do open up, including:

1️⃣ Interjecting prematurely and attempting to solve the issue.
2️⃣ Responding with phrases like 'I warned you about that!'
3️⃣ Displaying frustration or anger while their child shares their thoughts or feelings.
4️⃣ Failing to fully listen, prioritizing reaching a solution quickly.
5️⃣ Comparing the current situation to their own difficult childhood experiences.

👂 When a child confides in us, they seek validation for their feelings and a sense of understanding. What they truly desire is someone who will genuinely listen. Trust is paramount in these moments. The best course of action is to offer an open ear.

1️⃣ Instead of jumping in and trying to fix the problem immediately:
      "Thank you for sharing this with me. I'm here to support you. How can I help?"

2️⃣ Instead of saying "I told you not to do that!":
      "It's understandable that you're feeling this way. What might help you feel better about this?”

3️⃣ Instead of showing frustration or anger:
      "I'm glad you're sharing your thoughts with me. I may need a moment to process, but I'm listening."

4️⃣ Instead of not fully listening and wanting to get to the solution faster:
      "Your perspective is important to me. Take your time, and I'm here to listen."

5️⃣ Instead of comparing the situation to your own childhood experiences:
      "I hear what you're saying, and I want to help however I can.”

🤝 These responses prioritize empathy, understanding, and active listening, fostering a supportive environment for the child to feel heard and validated.

🕰️ Remember, there's always time for parenting, whether it involves correction, guidance, explanation, teaching, or problem-solving. However, when a child approaches you with their feelings, they typically aren't seeking immediate parenting interventions unless explicitly requested. Learning to discern between these moments and finding appropriate times for parenting can significantly strengthen your relationship with your child. This doesn't mean neglecting your role as a parent; rather, it's about identifying the right moments for it.

📞Need help communicating with your teen? Comment CALL to learn about booking a free discovery call today!

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