Learn some helpful tips on how to approach a dreaded conversation with your teen.
Talking Points:
- Think about when your teen is most likely to be in the right frame of mind before bringing up a difficult or awkward topic.
- Starting off being direct and saying that you want to talk about something that is awkward or difficult gets that out in the open right from the start. No one has to pretend that they are more comfortable than they are, and it opens the conversation with honesty and transparency.
- This is not about “checking the box” of having a difficult conversation as a parent, it is showing them that you want to have a continuing relationship with them and help them through life as best you can.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What were the most difficult or awkward topics for you as a kid? Why did these things make you uncomfortable?
- What are some examples of difficult conversations you have had or know you will need to have with your kids? What makes you the most nervous or scared about these conversations?
- Why do you think children and teens respond better to casual conversations than a formal interview style discussion?
- How can you decide when the best time is for a conversation? What factors are important to consider?
- How can you “plant seeds” for future conversations on tough topics with your kids?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
