What Can Parents Do To Keep Connection With Their Teens?

The good news is that teenagers want to be connected with their parents, especially in times of need. What can parents do to keep a connection with their teens? There are several steps a parent can take to stay connected with their teen.

Spend fun time together. Even though adolescence is a busy time, it is important that the family finds time to just hang out. Spending a Saturday afternoon watching movies or doing an organized activity are examples of activities that help keep the bond between kids and parents strong.

Listen. Teenagers want the adults in their life to hear what they are saying. Engage in a topic of interest to the teen, and ask specific questions to let them know you are listening.

Include friends. Teens really love spending time with their friends, and the more a parent’s know about the friends, the better. It is also good to know the friend’s parents.

Talk about expectations. Although they would never let the parent know it, teens regularly report that they want to please their parents. Kids whose parents talk about their values and expectations make much better life choices.

Help them find their goal. Research also shows that teens with a goal for the future, such as going to college or having a career, make safer choices. Talking with teenagers about their goals and helping them form a plan for success is a great way for parents to keep connected.

Eat dinner together regularly. Research also shows that kids make better choices when they have a regular family meal. Find as many times as possible to eat together as a family.

Encourage their individuality. It is difficult for some parents to let go of control with their teens. However, adolescent’s with the freedom to find their own individuality transition into adulthood more smoothly. 

Offer open communication. Teens will continue to talk with their parents about a variety of issues when they can discuss feelings openly.