Listen more than you talk.
Communication between parents and children is often strained. It’s hard to nd common ground when you’re both trying to get your way. If you want to improve communication between you and your parents, here are some tips to keep in mind.
Parents often think their kids are lazy or disrespectful. They might even say things like, “I wish you would just listen to me.” While these words are hurtful, they also aren’t true. Kids are busy growing up and learning new things. They have to learn how to communicate with others, including their parents.
If you want to improve your relationship with your parents, try using these tips.
- Be a good listener.
When you’re talking to someone, it helps if you pay attention to what that person says. If you don’t, you won’t be able to understand them well enough to respond appropriately. The same goes for listening to your parents. When you hear something that makes sense, nod your head and show interest. Don’t interrupt your parent while they talk. This will make them feel as though you don’t care about what they’ve said.
- Ask questions.
Asking questions can help you gain information from your parents. For example, you could ask them why they did something the way they did. Or you could ask them what they think about an issue at school. Asking questions lets you know what your parents think about specific topics.
- Show respect.
Your parents may not always agree with your decisions, but that doesn’t mean they don’t love you. Try showing them respect by saying thank you for everything they do for you. Also, remember that you should treat your parents the way you’d like to be treated. That means being respectful of their opinions and feelings.
- Keep your promises.
It’s essential to keep your word. If you promise your mom or dad that you’ll clean your room before bedtime, then follow through on your promise. If you don’t keep your word, it can cause problems later on.
- Give compliments.
Compliments go a long way toward improving relationships. Tell your parents how much you appreciate what they do for you. Say things like “You’re so smart” or “You look great today.” Giving compliments shows your appreciation for all the ways your parents take care of you.
- Make time for fun together.
Even though you have different schedules, it’s still possible to spend quality time together. Plan activities like going out to eat, playing video games, or watching movies. These activities will allow you to connect without having to worry about anything else.
- Talk about grownup stuff.
Your parents probably don’t want to talk about serious issues right now. But there are times when it’s appropriate to discuss complex subjects. For example, if you need extra money to buy something special, tell your parents. Discussing adult topics such as this one will help you build trust.
- Have a positive attitude.
Don’t let negative thoughts creep into your brain. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of life. It’s easy to get down on yourself because you didn’t get a particular grade on a test. Remind yourself that everyone gets grades they don’t like sometimes.
- Learn to compromise.
Sometimes you and your parents disagree over something. Compromise is a way to resolve conflicts. For example, you might agree to do chores in exchange for getting more allowance.
- Take responsibility for your actions.
Taking responsibility means accepting that you caused a problem. You can only control yourself; you cannot control others. Accepting responsibility also means apologizing when you make a mistake.
- Be honest.
Honesty is another key ingredient in good communication between you and your parents. Even if you don’t like something your mother or father does, admit it. Explain why you don’t like it. Then try to workout a solution.
- Show gratitude.
Show your parents that you value their friendship by thanking them for things they do for you. For example, say thanks whenever your mom cooks dinner for you.
- Respect privacy.
Respecting privacy means not prying into people’s personal lives. If you see something inappropriate happening at home, tell your parents.
- Treat others the way you’d like to be treated.
Treat others the way you would like to be treated. This includes being respectful, kind, and helpful.
- Avoid gossip.
Gossip spreads negativity. It doesn’t matter who started it. Just stop talking about it.
- Remember to be patient.
- Make eye contact.
- Smile.
- Say, “I love you.
- Talk about what you’re interested in.
- Do favors for each other.
- Share ideas.
- Let go of grudges.
- Don’t take anything personally.
- Take turns.
- Don’t argue.
- Be independent.