Good Communication Is Worth It

What do slow cooking stews, flossing, and communicating with your teen have in common? They’re all things that sometimes take a little extra effort but have a big payoff. Taking time to listen to your teen without judgment strengthens the lines of communication, ensuring they’re open when you need them most. Listen first and give advice second. Ask open-ended questions and wait for the answer. Be okay with a conversation unfolding in small sessions over a long period of time. All this work prepares your teen for adulthood, which makes the extra effort worth it.

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