Friday, 1 May 2015

Teen Tips

The teenage years are stressful for the whole family. If you have a teen in the family, try reacting this way if you hear the following.
  • They say 'I don't have the money to get there'. You say 'I'll give you a lift'. It gives them a chance to open up on the way (easier than with eye contact).
  • They say 'I hate you'. You say - Nothing. Meeting angry outbursts with sympathetic silence gives them a chance to regain control.
  • They say 'You don't understand'. You say 'Tell me how you are feeling'. Take them seriously. Don't laugh, or try to rationalise their worries, they need to say them aloud.
  • They say 'Here are my results'. You say 'You worked really hard to get these grades'. Don't judge; empower them by praising their efforts instead.
Good Housekeeping, June 2014