As a parent, it can be difficult to know how to talk to your teenager. You want them to know that you're there for them, but you also don't want to lecture them or come across as condescending. The key is to find the right balance and to know what they want to hear from you.
Here are 10 things teenagers want to hear from their parents:
1. I love you no matter what.
2. I'm here for you, no matter what.
3. I support you, no matter what.
4. I believe in you, no matter what.
5. I will always be here for you.
6. You're not alone in this.
7. Let's talk about it.
8. I'm sorry.
9. Thank you.
10. We'll get through this together
I'm Proud of You
When your teenager does something that you're proud of, tell them. Let them know that you're impressed by their accomplishments.
Make sure you keep it genuine, and don't just say it because you think it's what they want to hear. When teenagers feel like their parents are proud of them, it gives them a boost of confidence and makes them feel loved.
I'm Here for You
When your teenager is going through a tough time, the last thing they want to hear is that you don't know what to do or that you're feeling helpless. What they need most is for you to be there for them.
Tell them that you're here for them, and that you'll support them no matter what. Let them know that you'll listen to them, and that you want to help them get through whatever it is they're dealing with.
The important thing is to stay positive and let your teenager know that you believe in them. They need to know that they can come to you with anything—no matter how big or small it may seem.
I Trust You
When you're a teenager, it seems like your parents are always breathing down your neck. It feels like they don't trust you to make the right choices.
But that's not the case. Your parents are just trying to protect you. They want you to have a bright future and they know that sometimes you're going to make mistakes.
What your parents really want to hear from you is that you trust them too. That you know they have your best interests at heart and that you're willing to work together to make things work out.
Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and it's especially important between parents and teenagers. So let your parents know that you trust them—it will make them happy and it will make it easier for both of you to communicate in the future.
I'm Sorry
When you mess up, it's important to apologize. And not just because you're in trouble—though that's certainly a good reason. But an apology is also a sign of respect. It shows your teenager that you're listening and that you value their opinion.
An apology can go a long way in repairing a broken relationship, and it can help build trust for the future. So don't be afraid to say "I'm sorry" when you've made a mistake. Your teenager will appreciate it.
I Know It's Hard
It's not always easy being a teenager. You're trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life, and sometimes it feels like your parents are just getting in the way. I know it's hard to feel like your parents are constantly judging you, but the truth is, they're just trying to help.
I know it's hard to take their advice sometimes, especially when it feels like they're not even listening to you. But remember, they've been through this before, and they have a lot of wisdom to share. So try to be open to their suggestions, and let them know that you appreciate their support.
It won't always be easy, but I promise you that it'll be worth it in the end.
You're Not Alone
When you're a teenager, it sometimes feels like you're the only one going through all of this. The pressure to fit in, the stress of school, the constant bombardment of social media—it all feels like too much sometimes.
But you're not alone. Your parents have been through this too, and they understand what you're going through. They may not always be able to solve your problems, but they're always there to listen and to offer support.
So please, don't hesitate to reach out to them. They may not always know what to say, but they want to help, and that's what counts.
I'm Listening
When your teenager is trying to communicate with you, the last thing they want to feel is ignored. So make sure you show them that you're listening by giving them your full attention.
Avoid distractions, like checking your phone or computer, and make sure you're not doing anything else that will interrupt the conversation.
Make eye contact, and be prepared to listen without judging or interrupting. If you need time to think about what they're saying, let them know and don't feel like you have to respond right away.
Just by making a few small changes, you can show your teenager that you're really listening and that you care about what they have to say.
I Love You
So, what do teenagers want to hear from their parents? Well, here are the top 10 things, according to a recent survey:
1. "I love you."
2. "You are important to me."
3. "I'm here for you."
4. "Thank you for being who you are."
5. "You are not alone."
6. "I'm proud of you."
7. "I respect you."
8. "I love you, no matter what."
Thank You
Thank you for always being there for me, even when I drive you crazy.
Thank you for listening to me, even when I'm not making sense.
Thank you for being patient with me, even when I'm acting like a child.
Thank you for never giving up on me, no matter what.
Thank you for always loving me, no matter what.
I'm Sorry
We all make mistakes, and when we do, the best thing we can do is apologize. That's something your teenager wants to hear from you—that you're sorry for the things you've done wrong.
It shows that you're humble, and that you're willing to own up to your mistakes. It also helps to repair the relationship, and shows that you're not afraid to admit when you're wrong.
So next time you've messed up, don't hesitate to say sorry. Your teenager will appreciate it.
Teens want and need to know that they are loved, no matter what. They need to know that their parents are there for them, no matter what.
9. Teens want to know that their parents are proud of them.
10. Teens want to hear that their parents will always be there for them, no matter what.