Excerpt from “99 Tips for Talking with Your Teenager:”
Tip #9: Time, time, time – your teen wants you! Try to give your teen some of your undivided attention – no phone, cooking, email, etc.
Commentary from ACS Executive Director, Dr.Philippe Rey:
Spend quality and quantity time with your adolescent. Adolescence is a time when young people naturally begin to pull away from the family and spend more time at school, with friends, or at a job. Still, time spent with a caring parent is key to young people’s ability to grow emotionally and socially. Take advantage of times your adolescent is home, over dinner or watching a ball game, to continue building your relationship. Become involved in your child’s outside interests. Your involvement will both show your support and help you stay informed about your child’s life.