It can be tricky navigating the teenage years, and fostering open communication and encouraging social interaction are definitely important, in and outside of the household.
I highly recommend a book called “How to get your teenager out of their bedroom” by Anita Cleare.
It’s current and beneficial as our teenage years are nothing like it is in 2025!
Here are ten suggestions that can also help your teenager:
Create Dedicated Connection Time: Even short, regular moments of focused attention can make a big difference. This could be a 15-minute chat after school, a shared activity like cooking dinner, or a tech-free evening. The key is consistency and showing you’re truly present.
Listen More Than You Talk: When they do open up, practice active listening. Put away distractions, make eye contact, and really hear what they’re saying without immediately jumping in with advice or judgment. Sometimes, just being heard is enough.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of questions with yes/no answers, try questions that encourage them to elaborate. For example, instead of “Did you have a good day?”, try “What was the most interesting thing that happened today?” or “How did you feel about that situation with your friend?”.
Show Genuine Interest in Their World: Make an effort to understand their interests, whether it’s music, gaming, social media, or a particular hobby. Asking questions and showing curiosity about what’s important to them can build bridges.
Respect Their Privacy and Boundaries: While you need to stay informed, avoid snooping or constantly interrogating them. Trust is crucial for open communication. Give them space and privacy, and they might be more likely to share when they’re ready.
Model Social Behavior: Teenagers often learn by observing. Show them the value of social connections by nurturing your own friendships and engaging in social activities. Talk about your positive social interactions and how they make you feel.
Facilitate Social Opportunities: Gently encourage them to participate in activities they enjoy, whether it’s joining a club, a sports team, volunteering, or attending social events. Help them find opportunities to connect with like-minded peers.
Focus on Their Strengths and Interests: Instead of pushing them into activities they dislike, help them identify their strengths and interests and find social avenues related to those. This can make socialising feel more natural and enjoyable.
Discuss the Benefits of Social Connection: Have open conversations about the positive impacts of friendships and social interaction on well-being, happiness, and even future opportunities. Frame it in a way that resonates with them.
Be Patient and Understanding: Building stronger communication and encouraging social engagement takes time. There will be ups and downs. Be patient, understanding, and supportive, even when it feels challenging. Let them know you’re there for them no matter what.
It’s a hard age, and it’s easy as a parent to forget what it was like. Special attention is helpful and needed.
Marygrace is a highly qualified and experienced Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist, dedicated to helping individuals overcome challenges and improve their lives. She earned her advanced professional diploma from the prestigious Institute of Clinical Hypnosis in London (2005) and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Regis University (Colorado). Her extensive training includes specialized master classes in Anxiety & Stress Management, Energy Therapies (including TFT), Life Coaching, Pain Management, and working with children.
A registered member of the AICH, and GHR (General Hypnotherapy Register), Marygrace is committed to ongoing professional development. She has served as a teaching assistant with the Institute of Clinical Hypnosis, regularly attending advanced courses to refine her skills. She is fully insured and holds an enhanced disclosure certification.
Marygrace’s passion for hypnotherapy stems from a personal experience. After successfully quitting smoking with the help of a hypnotherapist, she was inspired to empower others to make positive changes in their lives. This transformative experience ignited her desire to help people overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Her genuine care and natural ability to connect with individuals of all ages, including children and young adults, drive her work. She is particularly motivated to assist clients in managing anxiety and the stresses of modern life.
Originally from the USA, Marygrace has resided in London since 1991. She lives with her son and practices in Putney, Wandsworth, South West London. In her leisure time, she enjoys swimming, walking, reading, traveling, learning new skills, and laughter.
