How To Communicate With A Teenager

• Use his language & terminology – allow him to use slang/criticism
• Use e-mail, SMS
• Listen more than speak
• Tolerate his wide mood swings from adult to child – don’t react
• Allow his silences on issues (but express your disappointment)
• Encourage him to talk about his friends (be non-judgemental)
• Be consistent in exercising your authority
• Show interest in activities that he likes
• Give him space
• Offer to help him, but allow him freedom to choose
• Send him unexpected messages/gifts (and don’t expect response)
• Exhibit a positive mental attitude about yourself
• Share family worries, but reassure that you can handle it
• Don’t ever compare with sibling
• Praise specific acts of his (note, card, gift, public acknowledgement)
• Be a role model in day to day activities
• Bring up topic of concern, be non-judgemental, and ask for his views
• Talk to him about girls, sex, values, morals & take his opinion