Category:

Teenager

Easy Steps To Raising A Financially Responsible Teen

by Guest Post September 4, 2018

Helping your teen become a financially independent young adult is one of the goals of parents who engage in positive parenting. This goal can be difficult to reach if the process is not addressed by parents while their teens live at home. For proof, just consider how many older millennials are still struggling to leave their parents homes!

To prepare your teen to become financially independent, start by following these two steps. As you and your teen work together, you will be able to see what other things they need help with beyond these basic steps.

1. Assist Your Teen In Finding A Job

One of the first steps toward financial independence for teens is to have their own source of income. Not only does your teen gain a sense of independence thanks to bringing in their own income but they can also gain valuable work experience while still in the safety of the home. To help your teen find and land a job which is appropriate for their skill set, you can:

Talk with your teen about what their interests are and how they can turn their interests into work. A musically talented teen or one with a strong academic background may like tutoring others, or a more athletically-inclined teen may enjoy working as a lifeguard.
Contact people in your network of family, friends, and acquaintances. It is far easier for teens to land their first job through networking than just submitting applications
Help them prepare for their interviews by holding mock job interviews. You can use the most common job interview questions to help your teen be prepared to answer them properly.

Even if you prefer your teen not to take a job which may distract them from their schooling, it is important to develop the soft skills a job teaches such as good communication and teamwork. These skills can put your teen ahead of their peers. An ideal way to help them develop these skills and a strong work ethic is to have your teen regularly volunteer with an organization they admire.

2. Help Develop A Budget With Your Teen

Budgeting as a teen can be a simple activity which creates an important cornerstone of their future financial state. Since they have many of their needs still taken care of by you, the parents, creating a budget now gives them a valuable headstart on smart savings and spending. You can even find a good personal finance app for your teen to use. Some things to cover while teaching about budgets are:

Spending habits – For one week, have your teen track what they spend their money on. They may be surprised to see how much they spend on random purchases such as eating out with friends, and impulse buys at mall stores, etc. After they have tracked, help them plan out how to cut back on spending and save for bigger purchases.
Saving plan – In a recent survey, it was discovered that 40% of Americans are saving 5% or less of their annual income. To help your teen develop the habit of savings, help them determine how much they are willing to save per paycheck.
Budget tracking – A budget is of no use if there is no accountability. To help your teen track their budget, you can finally put their technology obsession to good use. There is a wide variety of personal finance apps which can help your teen easily track if their budget is working.

If your teen does not have any source of regular income, you can still help them create a budget. By working with hypothetical numbers using the average minimum wage in your area, you and your teen can create a basic budget to help them understand how to budget when they have an income.

As you work with your teens on developing their financial independence, other financial concerns are more likely to come up. Be sure to let your teen know that you are there for them and you are ready to help them find answers to their questions concerning financial independence.

Author Bio

Tyler Jacobson – Father of three and avid outdoor enthusiast – has been juggling life with kids for around 18 years. He’s learned a thing or two about parenting and has turned from a full time career in digital media to helping fellow parents of teenagers. He pulls from his own life experiences raising spunky, free-spirited children, as well as his work with various organizations that help teens be their best selves. During his free time, Tyler enjoys taking his family into the mountains to connect with a simpler side of life which he finds grounding and rejuvenating.

How To Use Positive Parenting With Your Teen

Helping Your Teen Find A Healthy Balance With Social Media

Key Ways To Improve Communication With Your Teen

How To Raise A Financially Responsible Teen

Kids Pre-Teen Teenager

4 Tech Gadgets To Get Your Kids Through the School Year

by Karly Wood August 23, 2018

written by Karly Wood

tech gadgets

Source: Amazon

1. Real Shades Screen Shades

Screen time is a fact of life in our day and age, and our kids also use technology to complete homework now, too. When your kids put on a pair of Real Shades, their eyes will be blocked from 65% of blue light emitted from tablets, phones and computers. They reduce eye strain, dry eyes and visual stress. They’re also made with unbreakable frames and polycarbonate lenses for a lifetime of wearing. Did we mention they also come in adult sizes?

Source: Amazon.com

2. Rocketbook Erasable Notebook

Save paper and the environment with the Pocketbook Erasable Notebook. The 32-page reusable pages are compatible with Pilot FriXion pens and come with QR coded sheets that allow for instant scanning. Take notes, take a photo and send your notes to a cloud account before wiping clean.

tech gadgets

Source: Tylt.com

3. Chargeable Backpack

Tech is a way of life! Never be worried about your pre-teen or teen’s phone dying after school when they have a chargeable backpack. This particular bag comes with a charging port and power bank so no more excuses! While these backpacks don’t come cheap, you also can’t put a price on peace of mind.

tech gadgets

Source: Amazon.com

4. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speakers

Waterproof, sleek design and a battery that lasts 24 hours means your school-aged kiddo will get plenty of use out of this speaker. Whether they’re catching up on recordings from school or just wanting some back ground music while doing homework, this small speaker packs a punch and for only $35.

7 Cute Backpacks That Are Perfect For Heading Back To School

Must-See Back To School Organization Tips

6 DIY Back To School Projects

4 Tech Gadgets To Get Your Kids Through the School Year

Kids Teenager

How To Use Positive Parenting With Your Teen

by Guest Post August 8, 2018

written by Guest Post

Adolescence can be tumultuous. Your teen is undergoing many changes, from the physical transformation of puberty to an onslaught of social pressures. In the meantime you’re facing new parenting challenges and learning to balance your child’s growing desire for independence with their continued need for guidance. When you combine this developmental push-pull with the moodiness that typifies adolescence, conflict is inevitable!

Whatever you do, Don’t give up! By keeping a couple of key principles in mind you can parent your teen positively, molding them into a good citizen without breaking their spirit or driving them away.

Communication Is Key

Your maturing child is likely spending more time with friends and demonstrating a greater craving for privacy. Many of their waking hours may also be dominated by school and extracurricular activities. You may have less time together, but it’s crucial that you keep communicating with your teen. Take advantage of shared moments like meals and car rides, and make plans for longer conversations. Ask your teen about school and their friends, activities and interests. When you listen during lighter moments, it’s easier to broach tough subjects.

Talking Tough

Some parents shun hot-button issues to avoid discomfort, sidestepping topics like

alcohol use
drug abuse
sexual relationships
sexual assault
depression, anger and anxiety
suicidal thoughts
eating disorders
self-harm

Other parents fear that discussion equals encouragement. For instance, someone might avoid asking their son who’s showing signs of depression if he’s had suicidal thoughts because they don’t want to plant the idea in his head. But completed suicide is the second-leading cause of death among teens, and you don’t have the luxury of avoiding the topic.

Listen And Learn

Your teen will face complex issues whether you discuss them or not, so bring up those tricky subjects. Opportunities to talk about problems often present themselves. Your teen’s school may host an event on suicide prevention or drug abuse, or a news story may spur a healthy discussion.

Ask your child whether their peers are using drugs and alcohol, and take time to learn about their own attitude toward substance use. It’s important to answer their questions honestly, because teens are famously sensitive to inauthenticity. You should also provide your young adult with contingency plans as well as orders.

You can tell your child not to drink or hang out with friends who do, but keep in mind car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers. Let your adolescent know that if they do ever drink they can call you for a ride, and they should do the same rather than getting in the car with a driver who’s under the influence.

Affirm Your Teen

Many of us spend a lot of time correcting our teen’s behavior and working to adjust their attitude. Too much criticism, however, can leave a kid feeling like you don’t like them or as if everything they do is wrong. It can erode their confidence and cause them to pull away or act out.

If you feel like you’re spending too much time chastising your teen, you can mitigate this unhealthy pattern with an important commodity: positive affirmation.

Make a point of acknowledging your child’s material achievements, like getting good grades or completing their chores. Also take time to acknowledge their positive attributes, like being funny or showing kindness.

The late author and self-development coach Dr. Wayne Dyer had a key message: Each of us is a human being, not a human doing. He had some clear advice: “Don’t equate your self-worth with how well you do things in life.”

You may want to occasionally reward your child, perhaps celebrating a milestone by going out for ice cream. Oftentimes, however, all you need is to give your teen the praise they crave.

Tell them “you done good.” It will reinforce their self-worth and remind you how lucky you are to have this blossoming human being in your care.

Author Bio

Key Ways To Improve Communication With Your Teen

Helping Your Teen Find A Healthy Balance With Social Media

6 Ways To Teach Your Teen How To Be A Good Friend

How To Use Positive Parenting With Your Teen

Kids Little Kid Pre-Teen Teenager

4 Self-Care Habits That Will Boost Your Child’s Mental Health

by Guest Post August 6, 2018

written by Guest Post

Self-care is something we do intentionally to sustain our physical, mental or emotional well-being, and as parents it can be hard to find time to do. As it turns out, learning to take care of ourselves from an early age can set the precedent for making it a priority in adulthood. Learning self-care in our childhood isn’t just to set ourselves up for healthy habits, it’s also to manage developmental stressors that can affect mental health throughout life.

Whether your child is 8 or 18, regular acts of self-care will promote a productive environment of positive strategies for good health. Here are 4 self-care ideas that can be easily integrated into everyday life to improve your child’s mental health.

self-care habits

1. Encourage Openness

It’s important for children to not only be comfortable with sharing their emotions, but to know how to as well. Start the conversation with your child by letting them know that you are someone who cares and will listen without judgement if they want to share their thoughts and feelings. If your child is reserved by nature and likewise has difficulty openly discussing touchy topics such as mental health, provide accessible mental health resources that illustrate other’s experiences with regulating their mental state. It’s great for children to grow awareness of their sense of self and well-being on a relatable scale.

2. Form Healthy Habits

Teaching children how to tweak small details in their daily routine is a great way to concurrently improve their physical health as well as their mental health. Research shows physical exercise is essential to mental health. Burning off some of that negative energy can be beneficial in overall mood improvement by relieving stress and increasing energy and mental alertness. The same research recommends exercising three or more times per week for at least 45 minutes. This can easily be broken down to fit your children’s schedule by going for a bike ride after school and then maybe a walk together after dinner. Even better if you can find a local sports league that your child expresses an interest in, like soccer or softball!

3. Make Time For Fun

Your child should make it a priority to do something enjoyable every single day, whether it’s on their own or with someone else. More importantly, it’s important to find ways to make daily activities more enjoyable if they’re something your child doesn’t typically look forward to doing. For example, if your child enjoys music, allow them to set aside some time to listen to their favorite band, dance to some tunes, or play music on an instrument. Likewise, if guitar practice for instance, isn’t something that your child particularly enjoys but knows is a must for school, they can incorporate ways to make it more enjoyable by learning how to play a favorite song of theirs.

4. Support Creativity

When words fail, sometimes we can relieve our tension and express our emotions through creative outlets. Mindful activities like coloring or journaling are great avenues for your child to explore when learning to work through stress and complicated feelings. Consider a therapeutic coloring book, for any age, that can can sooth negative emotions, improve mood and increase focus on the present moment. Your child might even find a sense of pride in their work, ultimately boosting their self-esteem.

7 Ways I Practice Loving Myself As A Busy Mom

A Self-Care Subscription Box To Encourage Moms

4 Self-Care Habits That Will Boost Your Child’s Mental Health

Pre-Teen Teenager

Helping Your Teen Find A Healthy Balance With Social Media

by Guest Post July 5, 2018

written by Guest Post

Some days were made for technology. You sit down to watch a show on Netflix and before you know it, you’ve gone through an entire season in a day. Whether you call it binge-watching or therapy, It happens to all of us. You may even let it happen with your kids from time to time.

But while the occasional indulgence is understandable, it can quickly get excessive. Common Sense Media, a nonprofit aimed at cultivating tech media-savvy families, conducted a 2015 study of teens’ online behavior. The organization found that on average, adolescents spend nearly nine hours a day online. Unfortunately, all that screen-time has an impact far beyond “rotting the brain,” as my grandmother would say.

Teens using social media are exposed to countless idealized images of their peers as well as celebrities. Some 2.7 percent of teenage girls struggle with an eating disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. It’s clear that our digital culture is cultivating poor body image, self-hatred, and envy among many young people.

It’s important to strike a balance between self-expression and the obsession with image, but teens need our help to do it. Here are some ways to help your teen navigate the tricky world of social media.

teens and social media

1. Help Them Keep Some Perspective

Have you seen all those people on Facebook––happy, with flawless complexions and beach bodies? Those photos aren’t real. People on social media, particularly image-conscious teens, spend a lot of time and effort cultivating an enviable digital presence.

According to a recent study by the University of California, the main concern teens have when they are online is the kind of image they present. A 2016 TIME magazine article refers to social media as “a toxic mirror.” Earlier this year, psychologists found robust cross-cultural evidence linking social media use to body image concerns, dieting, body surveillance, a drive for thinness and self-objectification in adolescents.

Talk to your teens about how many people enhance their so-called candid shots with filters and digital manipulation tools like Photoshop. Point out how each person’s feed is curated, with only their positive moments shared and only their best-looking pictures posted. Help them to understand how easy it is to manipulate an online persona. Anything to show that things aren’t always what they seem.

2. Have Them Evaluate Their Social Media Posts

Want a good way to illustrate the above? Let them go through their own posts. Does it show a genuine reality, or are things skewed? Chances are, they’ll see that the moments they shared look more exciting and rosy than they actually were.

3. Set “No Screen” Times

Everyone should have time during their day where they are away from their screens, which can be hard for a teen to do on their own. Set times in the morning when they first wake up and in the evening where no screens are allowed. It can help to make charging stations in another room, like the kitchen.

4. Enjoy Family Meals Together

Mealtimes provide an excellent opportunity for a family to connect, emphasizing the importance of being together instead of just texting one another. Even sharing one meal a day can have a real effect. Feel free to invite friends along as well!

5. Make Time For Real Life Adventures

My kids and I spend a day hiking every other week. We also have a weekly family game night along with a movie night. Friends are allowed at these events, but phones are not.

I suggest that you organize real-world events for your family and friends as well. Spending time face-to-face, looking real rather than perfect and having fun, can change all of our perspectives on technology.

Author Bio

Promoting A Healthy Body Image With Your Teen

Key Ways To Improve Communication With Your Teen

6 Issues Your Teenage Daughter Is Dealing With On Social Media

Pre-Teen Teenager

Promoting A Healthy Body Image With Your Teen

by Guest Post June 8, 2018

written by Guest Post

Before social media was so prevalent in our lives, movies, TV shows, and magazines drove much of teenage body image. With the rising popularity of social media, people easily can hide their flaws by posting only positive pictures and statuses and it can be very difficult for teens to decipher what’s real and what isn’t. This lends itself to the possibility of everywhere to gain an unhealthy perspective on reality and how they should look. Now, more than ever it’s important to help your teen to have realistic exceptions and develop a healthy body image.

healthy body image

1. Be a Model (a role model, that is)

It is not only important to tell teens how they can have a positive body image but to show them how to as well. Be mindful of what you say about other people, body types and lifestyle in front of your teen. Speaking negatively of other people’s looks will show your child it is okay to do the same. Model positive self-image and confidence by speaking highly of yourself and being proud of your own body.

2. Make Exercise a Way of Life for the Family

Exercise can be an integral part of developing a healthy body image. Strong bodies are important! An easy way to incorporate exercise is to do it as a family activity, like playing sports, hiking or swimming. Taking care of your physical body is just as important as taking care of your mind.

3. Buy Healthy Foods

There are many options out there when it comes to giving your teen access to healthy foods and eating habits. Some people may look to eating mostly plant-based foods while others might look into a carnivore diet. Whatever your eating choices are in the family, make sure your teen has many healthy foods readily available to them. It can also be a good idea to teach them how to cook meals for themselves at a young age, by encouraging them to take charge of their own healthy eating habits.

4. Have Open Conversation

When you have open and honest conversation, your teen is more likely to come to you in times of distress. It is important not to judge when they make poor choices, but rather to help them learn from their mistakes. There are many tough subjects parents have to face as their teens grow up. The earlier you begin to have open conversation with them, the better.

5. Monitor Social Media Usage

While teenagers tend to thing they know everything when it comes to social media, they are still in need of your guidance. As parents, it’s completely acceptable to monitor your kids activity on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and SnapChat. Let them know you have their passwords, you follow them and that you are watching them as they make choices. Social media is a privilege, and they have to earn it.

6. Give Them Opportunities to Have Real Relationships with People

One of the biggest problems with social media these days is that it prevents us from having a real face to face relationships with people. Give your teen plenty of opportunities to connect with people in real life. It can give them confidence when out in social situations, going for interviews, and an overall sense of themselves to know they have real people to turn to in difficult situations. Teach them how to converse with others and how to solve everyday problems. They might not love the idea, but someday, they will thank you for your efforts.

7. Focus on More Than Just Looks

Ultimately, teenagers need to know there is more to them than just looks. While it is important for them to have a healthy body image, it shouldn’t be the only thing they put effort into. Praise them for their accomplishments in school and in extracurricular life. Let them know how much you care about them, no matter what happens. Whatever their talents or hobbies are, focus on the positive and give them compliments for their efforts. Having a healthy body image is important, but there’s more to life than just their body.

6 Easy Ways To Help Your Children Have A Healthy Body Image

How To Love Your Body After Baby

5 Ways To Start Loving Your Body More This Year

Author Bio:

Amanda Maurois is the founder of HowTonight lifestyle blog. She is a proud mom, full-time lifestyle blogger and enthusiastic traveler and her goal is to make the world a better place through inspiring content.

Promoting A Healthy Body Image With Your Teen

Kids Little Kid Pre-Teen Teenager

6 Easy Ways To Help Your Children Have A Healthy Body Image

by Guest Post June 6, 2018

written by Guest Post

Several studies suggest that children can start having body image issues as early as 3 years old. Imagine––that’s even before they completely grasp the concept of spoken language! This is why it’s never too early to start teaching our kids about having a positive body image. Here are seven easy ways to help your kids have a healthy body image.

healthy body image

1. Set a Good Example

As parents, or even just as more knowledgeable adults, we must always be aware of our actions and the things we say around children—whether it is about ourselves, other people, or things. Sometimes we tend to joke about the way our body looks and our kids pick up on it! As difficult as it may be, try and avoid negative thoughts about the way you look in your swimsuit, how you haven’t lost that baby weight or how you don’t look like you did pre-children. Your body is beautiful and that’s what we want our kids to know.

2. Build Up Confidence Through Compliments

Telling your children that they are beautiful contributes to their positive body image, but complimenting them on their talents, good behavior, or unique character, instead of their physical attributes is always a good idea, too. This will help them develop a sense of what’s really important about themselves.

3. Focus on Healthy Bodies- Not “Beautiful” Bodies

As a family, make a commitment to eating healthy and building a healthy lifestyle, instead of discussing the issue of weight by dieting. Make physical activity about having fun, not losing weight! The real goal should be to feel strong and capable, regardless of shape and size.

4. Help Your Children Avoid Body and Sexual Stereotypes

With so many forms of media accessible to kids at such an early age, even the most vigilant parent may find it hard to completely shield their children from unhealthy body stereotypes. Be mindful of characters and shows that do not promote stereotypes (such as girl characters only caring about looking pretty or boys caring too much about being buff) and always have open conversations with your kiddos about healthy expectations.

5. Have Open Communication

A child’s self-esteem—and their level of confidence—is significantly affected by their body image. Have frequent and open discussions with your kids about a positive body image and let them know it’s ok to bring up when they aren’t feeling comfortable in their own skin.

6. Celebrate Differences

Different hair color, eyes, skin color and body shape––no two of us are alike! Use opportunities to celebrate how everyone is unique and beautiful, and it’s because we are different from each other. Yes, our kids perceptions of the body will change over time (especially in the teen years), but an acceptance and understanding that we are all made to be different will go a long way in having a healthy body image.

Author Bio:

Melissa Lobo is a young and energetic writer, a mom to a sweet little boy, and a fur-mom to two perfect pooches. Before becoming the Associate Content Director for Project Female, she was a journalist specializing in topics related to women in politics and policy affecting women.

5 Ways To Start Loving Your Body More This Year

4 Ways To Let Go Of Your Body Issues And Enjoy Pregnancy

How To Love Your Body After Baby

6 Easy Ways To Help Your Children Have A Healthy Body Image

SaveSave

Little Kid Pre-Teen Teenager

5 Summer Chore Charts To Keep The Kids Busy

by Karly Wood May 28, 2018

written by Karly Wood

Summer is the stuff dreams are made of for kids: staying up late, sleeping in and endless amounts of fun. But just because school’s out that doesn’t mean the kiddos can’t keep maintain some normalcy in the form of chores. We’ve rounded up some fun ways to incorporate responsibility with summer chore charts!

summer chore charts

Source: SimplyKierste.com

1. Before You Play

Sometimes “chores” are not all about cleaning up the house- sometimes they can be about self-care, like in this list. Basic tasks like making your bed, getting dressed and spending time reading are all easy things that will give kids a sense of accomplishment without overwhelming their day. They can check off their “to do list” and get outside to enjoy the summer sun!

Download your own copy at SimplyKierste.com.

summer chore charts

Source: TheCraftingChicks.com

2. Summer Jobs Chart

It’s all about becoming a well-rounded adult with these job charts. From personal hygiene, educational and learning tasks, to family and the quest for having a good attitude, you are giving your kiddos the whole treatment with a summer chore chart like this one!

You can download your own copy and get inspiration on how to use them at TheCraftingChicks.com.

summer chore charts

Source: Love-The-Day.com

3. Summer Daily Checklist

This checklist was created by a fellow mom who wanted to put off screen time as long as possible- and it worked! Kiddos can earn there way to some tablet time, but only after checking off this robust list that involves household chores, some educational activities, outside playtime and also a random act of kindness- our fave.

Snag a copy for yourself at Love-The-Day.com!

summer chore charts

Source: ThirtyHandMadeDays.com

4. Summer Rules

This laminated summer rules list can be reused every day after wiping clean. Kiddos follow a basic list of personal chores and then participate in some family duties and creative ways to expand their mind before being allowed electronics. It’s a win-win for everyone!

Head to ThirtyHandMadeDays.com to download a copy for free, as well as a fun summer reading challenge bookmark template!

summer chore charts

Source: LilLuna.com

5. Summer To-Do’s

Make completing chores a breeze when you break them up into morning, noon and night! Kristin from Lil’ Luna has also made girl and boy friendly colors to make using these charts even more fun! Whether you like daily or weekly charts, there’s one for everyone in this free pack.

Download your fave at LilLuna.com!

6 Awesome Chore Charts

7 Chore Systems For Kids

10 Chores So Easy, Your Toddler Could Do Them!

5 Summer Chore Charts To Keep The Kids Busy.1

SaveSave

Teenager

7 Fun Bonding Activities For Moms and Teen Girls

by Guest Post May 3, 2018

written by Guest Post

A study recently found that parents spend more time with their kids than in the last fifty years, but it is doubtful that most modern parents feel like that is the case for them. Running around doing errands, working, after school activities––it takes up such a huge chunk of the day that any time at all can seem like a luxury.

If you have found yourself struggling to find the time and energy to bond with your teenage daughter, you could be really feeling the pain. But here are seven activities busy moms can squeeze into the week for some quality time with their teens.

Bonding Activities

1. Movie Night

After a long day, the last thing you want to do is something that takes a lot of energy. That is why settling in to watch a movie, especially at home, can be such a nice way to unwind. When you do it with your kids it is even better!

2. Spa Day

Do you like to get your nails done? A mani/pedi? Facial? You can get one together. It may seem a little cliche, but it can be a fun way to bond and spend time talking, while getting in a little pampering time yourself.

3. Saturday Picnic

Have a Saturday afternoon free? Why not throw together some sandwiches and head to the park. It is such a simple but satisfying way to waste an afternoon, especially when you don’t have many to waste to begin with.

4.Morning/Evening Walk

Walking is one of the best exercises you can do. It is also a great time to connect and chat because it doesn’t inhibit the ability to hold a conversation like so much exercise does. Squeeze one in during the morning and evening and be healthy together.

5. Preparing Meals

Everyone has to eat. Making a meal is such a fantastic way to bond and also wonderful for building memories while teaching a skill that everyone should have. Even if it is just once a week, aim to make a meal together.

6. Homework Help

Homework gets so much harder once high school begins. You can help alleviate some of your teen’s stress by assisting them, while showing support for their academic goals. It is also perfect for staying involved, particularly when you don’t feel like you have been doing enough in that regard (as so many of us feel).

7. Dinner

One of my children’s teachers once told me that the most powerful and important way to stay involved is to just sit down for dinner each night. I didn’t believe them…until I made it a priority. Just sitting down for dinner is such a perfect bonding tool that fosters conversation and draws the entire family together. Dinner doesn’t work? Breakfast can work, too!

Ultimately, any time you spend with your teenage daughter having an open conversation is valuable. When life is hectic it can be overwhelming, so don’t worry about the activity. Just be there, love them and connect whenever possible. They will remember those times fondly.

Author Bio

Tyler Jacobson is a father of three and avid outdoor enthusiast. He’s learned a thing or two about parenting and has turned from a full time career in digital media to helping fellow parents of teenagers. He pulls from his own life experiences raising spunky, free-spirited children, as well as his work with various organizations that help teens be their best selves. During his free time, Tyler enjoys taking his family into the mountains to connect with a simpler side of life which he finds grounding and rejuvenating.

Key Ways To Improve Communication With Your Teen

by Guest Post March 20, 2018

written by Guest Post

As any parent of a teenager knows, it can be hard to get them to open up. You know they have a lot to say (and you have the phone bill to prove it) but they don’t seem to say anything to you. This pulling away and reticence is normal teenage behavior. In their quest for independence from their parents, teens gradually start limiting what they say and opt instead to spend more time with their friends and peers.

While it can be frustrating to see your child share more be more open with their peers, it’s still crucial to cultivate a healthy and trusting relationship with them. The key to having the relationship you crave is to encourage open communication with your teen. Here are 7 ways to get your teen to talk to you:

communication with your teen

1. Talk Less, Listen More.

Give your teen your full attention when they’re talking to you and try not to interrupt. This means avoiding distractions like the TV, phones or your computer and just focusing on what they’re saying. Most of the time, your teen just needs someone to talk or vent to, and they’ll often feel much better afterward. Giving them your undivided attention also shows that you consider them important to listen to.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions.

If you keep getting one-word responses from your teen, perhaps you’re not asking the right questions. Spark conversations by asking open-ended questions that require more than a “yes” or “no” answer. For instance, instead of asking, “How was your day at school?” say, “Tell me about your favorite class,” or “What was the funniest/saddest/most inspiring thing that happened today?” Such questions can easily lead to a discussion where your teen won’t feel interrogated or pressured for answers.

3. Validate Without Being Judgmental.

Teenagers can be quite sensitive to perceived criticism or disapproval, so be supportive and empathetic to whatever they’re saying or going through- even if you don’t agree with them. Most importantly, don’t ridicule or be dismissive. Let them know you understand what they are going through and that they can count on your support.

4. Give Genuine Praise.

Your teen cares about what you think and longs for your approval even though they would be loathe to admit it. Expressing praise when they do something you approve will go a long way towards boosting their self-esteem and confidence. Being a positive and encouraging parent will help your relationship grow as opposed to being overly critical.

5. Don’t Overreact.

Controlling your emotions is key to enhancing communication with your child. Getting upset, yelling and being dramatic only shows that you can’t handle what your teen is telling you. Remember that this is not about you. While your teen is allowed to overreact, thanks to their hormones and still developing brains, you are not. So keep calm and carry on.

6. Include Them In Decision-Making.

Teens think they know everything so why not put those opinions to good use? Ask their opinion about major decisions and gradually start increasing their responsibilities around the home (i.e. setting up their own financial accounts, driving classes etc.). This demonstrates your trust in them. It is also a good idea to involve your teenage son or daughter when setting rules and consequences. Although the final decision is yours, involving them increases their chance of cooperating with the laid out rules.

7. Spend Time Together.

There’s more to communicating than just talking with each other. Set aside time each week to spend with your teen doing something that both of you enjoy, such as camping, hiking, dancing, or going to the movies. Additionally, you should make a habit of sitting down to a meal regularly as a family. Hanging out together helps you bond and gives you time to get to know each other. Your teen will also learn to relax and enjoy your company without worrying about being questioned or lectured all the time.

The teenage years are a trying time for you and your teen, but it doesn’t have to be. By learning how to best communicate with each other, you can forge a healthy, meaningful relationship that brings you together as a family.

Author Bio

8 Ways To Boost Your Teenage Daughter’s Self Esteem

9 Things Only Moms Of Teenage Daughters Understand

6 Summer Jobs That Are Perfect For Teenagers

Key Ways To Improve Communication With Your Teen

Newer Posts

Older Posts

Teenager

1. Assist Your Teen In Finding A Job

2. Help Develop A Budget With Your Teen

RELATED POSTS

1. Real Shades Screen Shades

2. Rocketbook Erasable Notebook

3. Chargeable Backpack

4. Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speakers

RELATED POSTS

Communication Is Key

Talking Tough

Listen And Learn

Affirm Your Teen

RELATED POSTS

1. Encourage Openness

2. Form Healthy Habits

3. Make Time For Fun

4. Support Creativity

RELATED POSTS

1. Help Them Keep Some Perspective

2. Have Them Evaluate Their Social Media Posts

3. Set “No Screen” Times

4. Enjoy Family Meals Together

5. Make Time For Real Life Adventures

1. Be a Model (a role model, that is)

2. Make Exercise a Way of Life for the Family

3. Buy Healthy Foods

4. Have Open Conversation

5. Monitor Social Media Usage

6. Give Them Opportunities to Have Real Relationships with People

7. Focus on More Than Just Looks

RELATED POSTS

1. Set a Good Example

2. Build Up Confidence Through Compliments

3. Focus on Healthy Bodies- Not “Beautiful” Bodies

4. Help Your Children Avoid Body and Sexual Stereotypes

5. Have Open Communication

6. Celebrate Differences

RELATED STORIES

1. Before You Play

2. Summer Jobs Chart

3. Summer Daily Checklist

4. Summer Rules

5. Summer To-Do’s

RELATED POSTS

1. Movie Night

2. Spa Day

3. Saturday Picnic

4.Morning/Evening Walk

5. Preparing Meals

6. Homework Help

7. Dinner

RELATED STORIES

1. Talk Less, Listen More.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions.

3. Validate Without Being Judgmental.

4. Give Genuine Praise.

5. Don’t Overreact.

6. Include Them In Decision-Making.

7. Spend Time Together.

RELATED POSTS