While smaller children seem to have no problem opening up during conversations and telling the truth as it is, as kids get older, they develop their social consciousness and, therefore, become more apprehensive about oversharing. Unfortunately, this could result in them shutting down your parent-child communication. Here are some ways to help your teen open up and be frank in conversations.
Understand Their Stress
One reason why your teen might not be opening up is because of stress. Also, it could be out of an unwillingness to be vulnerable and open up on sensitive issues. In order to overcome this hurdle, rather approach your child to speak in a casual, indirect way, whereby you don’t speak directly about what’s on your mind and instead speak in a suggestive way, allowing your teen to open up themselves without pressure.
Showing Understanding
Sometimes, kids are quiet because they are hiding something. While this may be because they did something mischievous, it could also be because of something embarrassing happening and a fear that you won’t be accepting of them or their mistake. The most important thing to do in this situation is to appear approachable and ensure that they feel comfortable to confide in you.
Be A Bystander
There are occasions when your kids feel more comfortable confiding in their friends than with you. In such situations, you could offer to carpool for them and their friends or take the group out for a day out. This way, your teen may feel more inclined to speak out, all while you avoid applying the pressure that comes with one-on-one sit-downs.