Remind them that you are on their side. Emphasize common goals and use them as a basis for your guidance and suggestions, i.e. remind your child that you both want them to stay healthy and safe. Emphasize common goals.
Agree to step away.
Agree to temporarily stop talking if things don’t go well. Wait until both individuals
can talk in a calm, direct fashion. Recognize that conflict is natural.
Use appropriate body language.
Avoid debate.
Sometimes teens feel they must “defend” a position. If you find yourselves debating, try suggesting that you both approach matters from a different angle. Avoid statements that begin with “you” that make the other person feel attacked: “You did this…”
How you position yourself physically while you talk can send important messages about your attitudes or express something you are not trying to convey. Don’t look away or slouch down. Nod your head in agreement.
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