Pro Parenting Tip: Celebrate Their Genius

Ah, teenagers. Masters of the dramatic sigh, the expressive eye roll, and the occasional bout of "teensplaining." We've all been there: you're wrestling with a new app, and suddenly your teen appears, a beacon of tech knowledge, ready to guide you through the digital wilderness.

Sure, sometimes "teensplaining" can feel dismissive. But here's the secret: it's actually a sign of your teen's incredible brain development! Their brains are wired for information absorption.

Unlike adults who might get bogged down in routine, teens see the world with fresh eyes, constantly learning and exploring new concepts. This, combined with their access to a vast ocean of information online, creates the perfect storm of "teen-know-it-all-ness."

Why Does "Teenslaining" Happen?

Teen "know-it-all" moments aren't about arrogance; they're about:

• Asserting Independence: They're testing their wings, showing they can handle things on their own.
• Showcasing Knowledge: They're excited about what they've learned and eager to share it with the world (including you!).
• Building Competence: They crave a sense of mastery, and explaining things reinforces their growing knowledge and abilities.

Instead of letting the eye rolls take over, try flipping the script. Here's how:

Step 1: Ditch the Defensiveness, Embrace Curiosity

The next time your teen swoops in with a solution, ditch the urge to explain you've "been there, done that." Instead, try:

• "Wow, I never thought of it that way!" This simple phrase validates their knowledge and encourages them to elaborate.
• "That's interesting. Tell me more about how that works." This shows genuine interest and sparks a conversation, not a confrontation.

Step 2: Turn the Tables

Take your connection a step further. Ask your teen's opinion on something you're passionate about. It shows respect for their perspective and fosters a sense of mutual learning:

• "I'm reading this article about [topic]. What do you think?" Engaging them in your interests deepens your bond and opens the door for a fascinating exchange.

Step 3: Celebrate the Learning (For Both of You!)

Learning is a two-way street. If you gain a new perspective from your teen, acknowledge it with a genuine:

• "Thank you for explaining that! I never knew." A simple "thanks" shows appreciation and reinforces their confidence.

Bottom Line

"Teensplaining" isn't an attack; it's an opportunity. By engaging with curiosity, you can boost your teen's confidence, strengthen your connection, and maybe even learn a thing or two yourself.