* The following article was copied from www.blog.championtribes.org.

We all know that the teenage years can be a difficult season both for kids and their parents. It starts in middle school where kids begin a major life transition. They start to form their identity, their bodies start to change, and they begin asking bigger and more challenging questions of themselves and the world around them.

Later in high school and the later teenage years they begin to assert their own independence and wield the growing authority and ownership they have over their life.

During all of these stages, it is important to be effectively communicating with your teenager. To help you in that process here are 3 tips for effective communication with your teenager:

#1. Listen

While at times it may seem like your son or daughter doesn’t want to open up or share with you, by just listening carefully and not prying too much they often feel safe enough to reveal what is going on in their life. Sometimes the small offhand comments is your teen’s way of communicating what is going on with them.

#2 Show trust

Your teenager wants to be taken seriously. Consider ways to both tell your teen and show them that they are trustworthy. Asking him or her to do you a favor is a sign of trust. Telling them that you trust them can boost their confidence. Giving them an extra privilege can be a sign that you trust them to make good decisions. It can be hard to give away control, but oftentimes it is best for your child in the long run.

#3 Don’t downplay their feelings or emotions

It can be easy to downplay someone else’s feelings or emotions. Much harder to truly empathize. But most of the time when your teenager reveals something difficult to you all they are looking for is a space to vent. For example, after a breakup you might find yourself saying “She wasn’t right for you.” Maybe instead just try to empathize. “Wow, that is really difficult. I know that is something really hard to deal with. I am here for you.” For more tips on how to be a more empathetic parent and friend, be sure to check out our post on empathy.