Having a hard time communicating with your teenager?
It’s tempting to ignore or get mad at your troubled teens…
They’re not doing things that you like…
And they’re not participating in the family like they used to.
But don’t give up on them…
Your troubled teen still needs to hear from you and know that you’re there.
So when you can’t think of anything nice to say to your troubled teens, try saying these things instead:
Tip #5) I am sorry
No one wants to admit that they were wrong. Sometimes “I am sorry” is the hardest thing to say. But even though you are the parent, it does not mean that you are immune to blunders or making wrong decisions. When you are wrong, admit it. It will not undermine your position as parent in your child’s eyes, rather, it will earn you some respect as they see that you are big enough to admit that you were wrong, that you can own up to your mistakes and that you respect them and their feelings enough to reach out and say “I am sorry.”
Can you think of some situations with your troubled teen where this would make a big difference?
Have the two of you been in a power struggle over who was right and who was wrong?
Saying, “I’m sorry,” can be a really good way to break the ice between you and your teenage son or daughter and can open up the path for communication.
Tip
I accept you
Teens need to feel accepted by their parents. They may not always act like it. In fact, they may even do and say things to make you believe the exact opposite. The truth is, though, they need and want your approval and acceptance. Acceptance is that unconditional love, that knowledge that no matter what they do or say, you will always love them, just as they are. Just those simple words can mean a great deal. Let your teen know, “I accept you.”
I know you don’t like everything that your teen is doing, but can you still accept them for who they are? When your teen feels like you don’t like them, don’t approve of them, and don’t accept them, is it any wonder why they’re pulling away from you?
Make it clear to your teen that you don’t like what they’re doing, but that you still accept THEM. They are not their behaviors. They are not their actions.
They are still your sweet little kids and they are currently going through some challenging times. Keep loving them and keep accepting them. And let them know about it!
There are 8 other great things you can say to your troubled teens to help stay connected to them. Click through to the full article to read more.
10 Things Your Teen Would Like To Hear [More 4 Kids]
Welcome back to Just Parenting Advice. If you haven't already, make sure you sign up for weekly updates using the form on the right.
