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Communicating with your teen can be a challenge. They’re maturing and developing their own perspectives, and they may not always want to talk to you. But it’s important to keep the lines of communication open, even when it’s tough. Having a close relationship with your teen during these trying years requires effective communication. Here are some suggestions to help you do just that.

• Learn to actively listen. Maybe the single most useful piece of advice. When your teen is talking, really listen to what they’re saying. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Put down any distractions (like your phone or laptop). Show your interest by maintaining eye contact, nodding your head, and asking questions.
• Be respectful. Even if you disagree with what your teen is saying, it is important to respect their viewpoint. Don’t ignore them, interrupt them, or try to convince them that they’re wrong. Listen carefully and make an effort to see things from their perspective. You can then have a civil discussion on the subject, but if you push too hard, they may shut down.
• Keep an open mind. Remember that your teen is maturing and developing their own opinions. It’s okay if they don’t always agree with you. Listen to their side of the story and try to see things from their point of view.
• Be honest. Even in challenging situations, honesty is the best policy. If you make a mistake, apologize. If you don’t know the answer to something, say so. Your teen will value your honesty even if it’s not always what they want to hear.
• Be consistent. Set clear rules and expectations for your teen, and be consistent with the consequences when they are broken. Your teen will be less likely to follow the rules if you are inconsistent.
• Maintain a positive attitude. Don’t dwell on your teen’s flaws, but rather on their many successes. They will feel better about themselves and be more open to communicating with you if you do this. When dealing with teenagers, it’s important to strike a balance between lecturing and nagging and providing encouragement.
• Be patient. It takes time to build trust and good communication with your teen. They are no longer the little one who clung to your leg, and they are figuring out who they are. They require some space to develop independence and deal with raging hormones. Allow them some breathing room and space to be a little moody.

• Pick your battles. Not everything is worth a fight. If your teen is doing something that isn’t causing any real harm, it might be best to let it go. Save your energy for the important things. 
• Be willing to compromise. You don’t always have to be right as a parent, and that’s okay. It’s important to be flexible with your teen and work together to achieve your goals and give them a sense of agency.
• Don’t be afraid to say “I don’t know.” It’s okay to admit when you don’t have all the answers. Tell your teen that you will find out more information and get back to them if you don’t know the answer. It’s okay for them to know you are human.
• Be a role model. Your teen is learning from you, so set a good example. Set a good example for them by using effective communication techniques.
• Ask for help if you need it. If you’re having trouble communicating with your adolescent, don’t be afraid to seek professional assistance. A therapist or counselor can assist you and your teen in improving your communication skills.
• Discuss difficult topics early and frequently. Don’t put off discussing sensitive topics like sex, drugs, and alcohol until there’s a crisis. Start talking about these topics early and frequently, so your teen knows they can come to you with any problem. One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to help your teen feel safe enough to discuss even the most taboo subjects with you, even if doing so is difficult.
• Be open to feedback. Even if your teen does not always agree with you, they have valuable things to say. Be open to their feedback and use it to improve your communication skills. Don’t let pride get in the way of learning from them.
• Be willing to change. If you’re unhappy with the way you’re communicating with your teen, be willing to change. Experiment with new things to see what works best for you and your family. Parenting is a journey of growth.
• Remember that you are not alone. Many other parents are having difficulty communicating with their teenagers. You can get help from books, websites, and support groups. If you need help, don’t be afraid to reach out to other parents.

Communicating with your teen can be challenging and frustrating, but it’s so important. By implementing these suggestions, you can strengthen your relationship with your teen and improve communication as you navigate these challenging times together. In no time at all, you’ll have passed through adolescence and be closer than ever!

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Hey, there! I’m Stephanie, your Maryland and DC senior portrait photographer. I hope my teen communication tips were helpful for you! Looking to book a senior portrait session in the Maryland and Washington, DC areas? I love providing high school seniors and their families with beautiful portraits and professional products to share with generations to come!  Let’s chat!