The parent-teenager relationship can be fraught with challenges. You may find yourself unable engage with your teenager the same way that you did when they were younger. Here are some tips to help you engage with them on their level.
Stop and Listen
Communication is a two way street. Many parents forget that in their attempts to instruct their children. Your teen is becoming their own person. They have their own ideas and thoughts on things. You really need to listen to what they have to say, even if you don’t agree with it. The point is to have a conversation that doesn’t involve conflict. Teenagers need to know that you respect their desire to be a separate entity from you.
Let Them Decide the Activity
In order for you to understand your teen, try doing some activities together. Let your teen decide what they want to do with you. This will allow you to learn about what your teen enjoys doing for fun. You may find that you have more in common than you thought. Even if your teenager wants to see a movie that you might hate, don’t complain about it. They will respond to you better if you at least try to do something that they enjoy.
Go Shopping & Get Matching Clothes
Your teen may think that you don’t appreciate some of the same things that they do. Show them that you want to develop your common interests or, at least, support theirs. Many teens will use their clothing to express themselves. Take them shopping so that you can encourage this behavior. If they’re into anime, for example, they might love to get some DBZ clothing. In that genre, there is a variety of saga characters and your teen most likely has a favorite one. Look at clothing stores, like Capsule Corp Clothing, that offer a wide range of choices when it comes to your teen’s interests. You may even want to consider getting something for you as well so that both you and your teen can have something to match and bond over.
Have Them Teach You
In order to develop a shared interest, have your teen teach you something new. You may be surprised at the talents that your teen has developed. This is one way to turn the tables on your relationship. You’re showing your teen that you respect them as a person. It’s also a good learning opportunity for your teen to see you in a new light. Give them a little slack to share their interests with you in a constructive manner.
As your teen grows, the dynamic of the relationship needs to change. The best way to engage with them is to show an interest in who they’re becoming.
