Connecting With Your Pre-teen and Teenager

It is hard to admit when you are wrong, especially to your children. However, admitting your mistakes, and apologizing if necessary, will strengthen your bond with your child. It will also let them know that it is okay to admit the things they have been wrong about.

Let Them Know You Love Them

They may roll their eyes and shrug whenever you say "I love you", but they do care, and they like to hear it.

Go For A Drive

Ask your teen to take a drive with you. You don't have to have any particular place in mind, just start driving. The simple fact that you are in the car can help open up a conversation, and since you are not looking each other in the eye, it may be easier for your teen to talk to you.

Make a deal with your teen that when you are having a conversation, only one person can speak at a time. If you are speaking, your teen needs to sit and listen. When it is your teen's turn to speak, show them the same respect and listen to what they are saying.