Staying Connected With Our Kids

Respect Goes Both Ways
One of the major components to making healthy connections with kids, especially teenagers, is to show respect. “Don’t talk down to them as though you are the only one with wisdom. Show them respect as fellow human beings,” Polanco said. “Part of respecting people and listening to them is being trustworthy by always keeping your promises and telling the truth.

Backe reminded us that “you don’t have to do anything special, but be a part of their daily life, show and teach them respect and communication, and treat them as you would a close personal friend whose success is something you strongly desire.”

As a child gets older, the respectful communication style that was started early on will continue to define the interaction between the parent and child. “During the childhood years, it is important for the parent to continue to clearly define boundaries for behaving. It is also important for the parents to be healthy role models,” said Prior.