Keep talking. Communication is essential to your relationship with your child.
Invite their ideas. Let them know you are interested in what they think. Teens will be more open to share
when they’re not being judged.
Talk to them, not at them. If you only lecture, they will tune you out.
Show love. Let your children know you love them, no matter what.
Keep your cool. When you feel your anger rise, give yourself a time out so you don’t say something you’ll regret.
Show respect. Watch your tone and words. Kids learn about respect by watching you.
Give hope. Communicate confi dence that they have the ability to solve problems.

To Learn More...

• “The Power of Positive Parenting”, Kerby T. Alvy, Ph.D.
• Family Education, www.familyeducation.com
• Parenting with Love and Logic, www.loveandlogic.com, 800-338-4065
• “Parenting Teenagers” Don Dinkmeyer and Gary D. McCay
• “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk” Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

For More Direct Help...

• The Family Conservancy, 913-342-1110
• Catholic Charities, 816-221-4377
• Jewish Family & Children Services, 816-333-1172