Make The Parent Teen Connection
Teenagers....They are starting to have an independent mind of their own. You ask how their day is, and you get a one word answer. It might be hard to recognize, but there are a few things that you can do to make sure you don't lose touch with your teens. See if this list helps you!
STOP MULTI-TASKING FOR A FEW MOMENTS
Even if it's just for a few seconds, stop and focus on your teen if they start talking to you. Stop the other tasks, look them directly in the eye. That attention will tell them, "You are the most important thing in the world to me at this very moment."
STOP, LOOK, AND LISTEN
Look at your child when they are talking to you. Listen to what they are saying. This will make them feel important.
BE INTERESTED IN THEIR LIVES
Even if you could care less about their favorite band and clothing style, if your child is excited about something, try to share in their excitement when they try to share it with you. It's their way of relating to you.
JUST BE THERE
So often I feel like my kids don't really care if I'm at home or not. But studies show that even if your child is in their bedroom and you're in the kitchen, teens benefit by you just being available for them.