PARENTING TEENS TIPS FOR HANDLING CONFLICT WITH CARE
KEY STRATEGIES FOR CONFLICT RESOLUTION Engage in active listening.
As kids grow into teens and young adults, family dynamics often change. Gaining more independence naturally becomes their priority, which can lead to more conflicts at home. Whether disagreeing over curfews, arguing about responsibilities, or struggling with differing communication styles, these challenges can feel new to many parents. Conflicts don’t have to create division, though. They can even strengthen your relationship if you handle them with care.
Set clear, respectful boundaries. Teens still need structure, but how you enforce boundaries matters. Respect their growing independence by explaining the reasoning behind rules and allowing room for compromise. You can also demonstrate the behavior you expect from your teen by setting and maintaining your boundaries. Modeling appropriate boundary-setting in your interactions shows them how to establish and respect limits in their relationships, which can benefit them long after they leave home.
Sometimes, the best way to avoid or defuse conflict is just to listen. Active listening helps strengthen relationships by showing your teen you care and understand their perspective. Reflect on their feelings to show you’re paying attention (e.g., “It sounds like you’re upset because you feel misunderstood.”). This approach helps teens feel heard and makes it less likely they’ll get defensive. Collaborate on solutions. Instead of imposing rules or decisions on your teen, involve them in finding resolutions. Collaboration and negotiation show their input matters. Open discussions foster mutual respect and help build a foundation for long-term trust and understanding. When collaborating, ask open-ended questions like, “What do you think would be fair?” or “How can we make this better for everyone?”
BUILDING STRONGER BONDS THROUGH CONFLICT
The teenage years bring rapid changes in how teens relate to their world and families. Conflict is common during this formative period, but it doesn’t have to be a battle — it can be a bridge. With patience, empathy, and the right strategies, you can foster a bond that not only survives the teen years but thrives because of them.
YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS
Ginger Veggie Stir Fry
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Inspired by AllRecipes.com
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
1. In a large bowl, mix 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tsp ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. 2. Add broccoli, carrots, snow peas, and green beans, and toss lightly. 3. Heat the remaining oil in a large
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4 tbsp vegetable oil, divided 2 tsp fresh chopped ginger root, divided
• • • • • • • • • •
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 small head broccoli, cut into florets 3/4 cup julienned carrots
skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes.
1/2 cup snow peas
1/2 cup halved green beans
4. Stir in water and soy sauce. Add onion, salt, and the
3 tbsp water
2 tbsp soy sauce
remaining ginger; cook and stir until the vegetables are crisp and tender.
1/4 cup chopped onions
1/2 tsp salt
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