Do you feel like you blinked, and suddenly, your sweet, sticky-hands, happy-go-lucky baby is a teenager?! Are you struggling to connect with this new person they’re becoming? Do you sometimes feel like you don’t know them at all?
You’re Not Alone!
Adolescence is a time of growth and change for teenagers. It’s a time of massive brain development and a time to seek out new experiences, new friendships, and even whole new personalities. It can be hard to keep up with all the changes as a parent, so continually “getting to know” your growing kid is essential.
Try These Questions
Try one or two of these questions while chauffeuring to their next activity, on your next teen-requested Starbucks run, or as they’re winding down for bed (even if it’s late!) to learn more about the person your child is becoming. Over time, you’ll be amazed at how much is happening in their worlds you can relate to, and soon enough, you’ll be able to give them advice they’ll actually appreciate.
- What’s a part of your day today do you wish you could redo?
- What’s your favorite memory from this school year so far?
- Have any of your friends surprised you lately? How?
- Which of your teachers is best at connecting with students? Why?
- Which of your classes is the most boring? What do you think the teacher can do to make it better?
- What’s the funniest meme or TikTok you saw today? Who did you share it with?
- What’s something you used to like that you’re realizing you no longer like? What has changed?
- What is something new you’re interested in learning more about? How can I help?
- Is there a trend you’re totally over, or wish would just go away?
- What’s your favorite thing you and I do together, and what do you wish I’d do more of?