Communication

 

Regular communication with children and teenagers is fundamental to their success in school and later in life. At very young ages, frequent positive communication helps children build relationships, understand their world, and develop the capability to understand their own feelings and experiences and transmit those to others.

 

As children grow older and into adolescence, communication between parents and children tends to taper off, which is normal. However, although part of the process of growing into adulthood involves establishing greater independence, maintaining regular, positive communication remains important. Above all, paying attention to what the young person says and making efforts to understand his or her perspective without making rapid judgments are important keys to keeping those lines of communication open. Here are some great resources:

 

 

• PBS’s Frontline produced a program called Inside the Teenage Brain, which presents new research explaining many mysteries of teen behavior. The program can be viewed online in its entirety at the Inside the Teenage Brain.

 

• The Inside the Teenage Brain website also provides several resources, worksheets, and activities, including this Talking With Your Teen worksheet.

 

• The FamilyEducation website provides several articles about various aspects of communication with young people, including information about teens using social media, avoiding lectures, rules for family meetings, and much more. In addition, the website provides this list of things to remember when communicating with a teen.

 

• Parenting Teens Info provides parenting programs, products, and resources as well as a blog.

 

These resources are provided for information purposes only and are not intended to replace professional medical, health, or legal advice.   Please consult your doctor, mental health professional or lawyer for advice that is specific to your needs.  SCC, its officers, directors, staff and attorneys hereby disclaim any responsibility for, or any liability resulting from, the use of these resources.