Have you ever had a conversation
with your teen that goes something like this:
How was your day? “Okay.” What did you learn in school? “Nothing.”
This is a typical exchange,
especially in the preteen years. Here are some tips that have worked for others
in trying to communicate with their children:
First, ask if it’s a good time to
talk. If your child says no, you could respond by saying, “When would be a good
time?” If no suggestions come forward, set up a time anyway and make sure it
happens.
It also helps to set a good example
by showing your child HOW to talk about his or her day. Talk about your day and
then ask children about theirs.
Plan something together. Whether
it’s a family vacation, visit to a relative, shopping trip or even something as
simple as choosing a video to watch, young people like to be involved and feel
like their opinions count.
Make the most of your child’s
style, which varies from individual to individual.
Girls at the preteen age may still be comfortable just sitting down
with a parent and talking.
Boys seem to be less self-conscious talking to a parent if they’re also
sharing an activity such as playing a game of catch or building a model
airplane. Activities help them loosen up.
Pay close attention to your child
and see what seems to work best in different situations.
Don’t lose heart! These phases are
quite normal.
