Have you ever had your teen just sit there and stare at you when you are trying to talk to them? You swear they aren’t even hearing a word you are saying and all they’re doing is sitting with their jaw dropped open as if they are doing their best cod-fish impression. Taking to a teen can be hard, and it can be even harder to get them to talk to you.
Here’s a few ideas on how to get into a meaningful conversation with your teen:
- Remember, teens listen to parents who listen. If you are taking time to hear them out, they will hear you out. Don’t be so quick to talk at them about things you want to say, but take the time to talk with them truly trying to understand what they are communicating.
- Consider, going on a car ride with them. Sometimes driving can be the best way for parents and teens to talk because they do not have to look you eye-to-eye and there is nowhere else they can go. Make the most of errands by taking them along, or purposely drive them for dinner or ice cream somewhere farther than the place right down the street.
- Don’t forget, vulnerability is the key to intimacy. If you want a teen to be open and honest with you, it may mean you need to let them in to your heart too. Be willing to be open. Share with them your deep thoughts or even past mistake in order to teach them lessons you’ve already learned. This will encourage them to be willing to share with you their life lessons as well.
Talking to a teen doesn’t need to be impossible. Just as they are changing physically, it is natural for them to change relationally (especially with you). Be aware of these changes and ready to adapt!
For more useful insights, check out my book that I wrote with my dad entitled, “Dad, If You Only Knew… 8 Things Teens want to tell their fathers (but don’t)“
