How to Not Freak Out When Talking to Your Teenager

Commit to showing that you are a “safe” listener

The most amazing truth we learned from teens throughout our research is quite simple. If you make a concerted effort to listen ultra-calmly— no matter how much you might be “freaking out” on the inside— you’ll hear so much more from your teen. You’ll be showing yourself to be a “safe” listener: someone who remains cool and collected when personal details are shared.

That sense becomes important even in much younger years, but as you can imagine, the teen years are when it begins to matter most. Ultimately, you can’t make your kids share, but a calm presence will help them feel that you can be trusted.

And maybe, if you’re lucky, they might even invite you into their next TikTok video . . . but only if you don’t freak out about it.

There is a lot going on in our kids’ minds and hearts—and now more than ever it is essential to understand it. Get Shaunti’s talk, “What Every Parent Needs to Know”, today!

Improve your relationships with simple, actionable steps backed by proven research! Visit SurprisingHope.com to learn about our courses.

Do you want Shaunti to share these life-changing truths at your church or event? Send us a speaking inquiry request today!