What
Teens Want: Someone To Listen
The one skill a parent of a teenager needs above all others is the
ability to listen.
Parents
should use their ears and mouth in proportion - listen twice as much as
you speak and try to understand the situation from your teenager's point
of view.
'Listen' doesn't mean 'agree'
This doesn't mean you will agree with or accept
everything your teen says. You will still have your own viewpoint, but
by listening you show a willingness to try to understand.
Listen to me and I'll listen to you
If your teen seems likely to make a decision
you don't like, don't give unsolicited advice, criticise, lecture or boss.
If it's not an important decision, then you will get credit for listening
and accepting your teen's right to make up her own mind. This will stand
you in good stead when a really important decision is under discussion.
The fact that you listen to her will encourage her to listen to you and
maybe she will be influenced by what you have to say.
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