How to Talk to Your Parents Walnut Creek CA

It's often hard for parents and children to spend time talking to each other. Parents often think they are over-stepping their boundaries while children often think their parents may not be interested in what they have to say. Some simple steps can help you achieve better communication.

Mrs. Janine Monson
925-588-6340
925 Ygnacio Valley Road Suite 103B
Walnut Creek, CA
Ms. Debora McManus
Debora McManus, LCSW

415-260-1190
936 Dewing Ave. Suite E1
Lafayette, CA
Ms. Debra Lyman
Debra Lyman, LCSW

510-594-4099
3120 Telegraph Ave. Suite 9
Berkeley, CA
Mrs. Maren Gleason
Maren Gleason, LCSW

925-838-2375
12 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 110
San Ramon, CA
Ms. Shira Gallagher
Private Practice

510-594-4008
2001 Blake St.
Berkeley, CA
Mr. Gil Shepard
Gil Shepard MFT

925-937-3337
2940 Camino Diablo, Suite 300
Walnut Creek, CA
Ms. Gail Hunt
Gail P. Hunt, LCSW, BCD

510-841-3002
3030 Ashby Avenue Suite 111
Berkeley, CA
Ms. Jennifer Valera
Piedmont Psychotherapy

510-292-6385
17 Gleneden Avenue Suite 2
Oakland, CA
Ms. Karen Pernet
Karen Pernet LCSW

510-923-0520
154 Santa Clara Ave
Oakland, CA
Dr. Haig Agigian`
510-653-7596
424 634d Street
Oakland, CA
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How to Talk to Your Parents

Steps

  1. Find something that interests both you and your parents. You may have a thing for classic rock or Frank Sinatra that they share, so talk about it. Or perhaps you and your dad are both into sports. Then talk about the game last night, or the game at school. You will find that the conversation will come easily between all of you.
  2. If you have a regular dinner time each night, try asking your parents about their day. You can be amazed at how easily they will open to you, with this simple question. Remember, that you have to open up to them also. Tell them what happened at school, or the new friend you met. Mention the new movie at the cinema, or the new book you saw in the bookstore; that you think your mom might like. They will reply, and soon all of you will be engrossed in a good 'give and take' conversation.
  3. When they talk, look at them so that they know you are listening. Don't act bored, or like you're not interested or they probably will stop talking, and walk away. Let them know you think that they have fascinating things to say by responding to what they say.
  4. A good conversation starter can start by watching a television show together. Often topics depicted on the show transcend to every day life, especially teen issues. Some of these include teen pregnancy, suicide, and rape, so don't expect the conversations to always be light and fluffy. Ask them questions about anything you need to know about any of these things, and watch the conversation flow.
  5. If all this fails, you can always try telling your parents how much you enjoy being with and talking to them. Parents tend to give teenagers too much space sometimes. Remind that even though you are not a little kid anymore, you still need them for guidance.
  6. Ask them for advice, talk to them about things that bother you, and mention things that others do that disturb you. By opening up, you will be 'friends' with your parents, and conversation will come easily.

Tips

  • While your parent prepares dinner; set the table, so that you are both doing something in the kitchen together. This makes it easy to talk, especially about the new "dreamy guy or girl" in school, that new movie, or a friend you met.
  • Mornings can be a rush, but you should never be too rushed for a good morning hug, and an "I love you", as you rush out the door.
  • Have open forums at least once a year, on or hours before New Year's eve particularly.
  • Little things count. Never forget to give them small presents just to let them know you remember them.
  • Little words count. A "thank you" warms their heart and makes them feel fulfilled.
  • Agree with them even when you truly dont. Clean your room,play with your younger siblings,help them out most of the time.

Warnings

  • Be Patient. If you and your parents have not developed good communication skills in the past, it might take time for them to feel comfortable talking about themselves to you.But, they are your parents and after all you should feel comfortable talking to them about anything. They love you, and want to help... most of the time......sometimes!

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