Spending Quality Time With Your Teen
Ivy Griffin
As a therapist who works with teens, a constant experience I hear from parents is the struggle to truly connect with them. The adolescent years can be a complex time for both teens and parents as teens are navigating a newfound desire for independence. This experience can leave the parent-child relationship feeling strained and distant. However, fostering a strong bond and quality time can provide benefits for a teen’s overall well-being.
Let’s explore some helpful tips to support you in spending quality time with your teen:
Be Fully Present.
It can be helpful to carve out a scheduled amount of time (30-60 minutes) a few times a week to be fully present without phones, TV, or other distractions. Try using this time to ask questions about your teen’s specific interests, friends, thoughts on current events, etc. I find that using question card games can be a fun way to connect!
Let Them Take the Lead.
Teens feel empowered when their opinions are valued. Although you may not always agree on a certain topic of conversation or the music they choose to play, making an effort to lean into their passions shows your teen that you care about their world.
Share a Meaningful Activity.
Try identifying activities and hobbies that you both enjoy and make time for them regularly. This could be playing a sport, finding a good TV show, having a paint or drawing night, or cooking a meal together. Rather than just talking to each other, engaging in a shared activity can provide a natural opportunity for meaningful bonding.
Listen Without Judgment.
A common experience for teens is feeling misunderstood which makes it difficult for them to open up. Creating a safe space where your teen can express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns without judgment can bridge this gap. While it may be tempting to lecture or pry, the simple practice of actively listening can go a long way in building trust.
Remember to give yourself grace – it may not always be so easy! Building a strong connection with your teen is an ongoing process that takes patience, effort, and understanding. By making quality time a priority, you can support your teen in navigating the challenges of adolescence and developing a secure sense of self.
With warm regards,
Mohinee Sharma, AMFT #141615, APCC #14625
Supervised by Ivy Griffin, LMFT
https://thrivetherapyandcounseling.com/mohinee-sharma