"Connecting Points" with Teens

From FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, Today, 14-Feb-2008

By Dr Bill Maier

 

 

"Connecting Points" with Teens

 

Teens today are being bombarded with mixed messages. Often, culture is telling them

one thing while their parents are telling them another. As parents, we want to help them

through these trying, confusing times. But what is the best way to do it? Author Josh McDowell

encourages parents to focus on what he calls three key “connecting points” in our relationship

with teenagers.

 

Point number one is affirmation. Let your children know that you understand their struggles.

Ask them: “How are you doing today? What’s going on in your world?” and then listen.

 

Point two is acceptance. Make sure your children know that you love them unconditionally,

no matter what. Accept them for who they are, not how they perform.

 

Point three is appreciation. Look for ways to express and tell them how proud you are to be their parents.

Encourage them by saying: “You did a great job on that,” or “Good effort! You’ll get it next time.”

 

These connecting points are critical elements to a good relationship with our teens.