How can I encourage open communication with my teenager?

How can I encourage open communication with my teenager?

Start by creating a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their thoughts. What specific issues are you facing?

They seem to shut down whenever I try to talk about their feelings.

Try to approach the conversation casually, perhaps during a shared activity. Have you considered using open-ended questions?

What are some examples of open-ended questions I can ask?

You could ask, 'What was the best part of your day?' or 'How do you feel about your friends lately?' This encourages sharing.

That sounds helpful! How can I make sure they feel heard?

Practice active listening by summarizing what they say and validating their feelings. This shows you care.