Pro Parenting Tip: Ask Permission

When I'm not spending time with my own teen, I'm dreaming up ways to best help YOU with your teen.

I'm swimming in a wealth of parenting tips, strategies, and information that I'm eager to share with you. I know they can help make your life (and your teen's life) far less stressful. Even joyful.

So, I've decided to share one tip a week. That way you'll have time to implement it and let me know how it worked :)

Ready for PRO PARENTING TIP #1?

ASK PERMISSION

When you see your teen doing something wrong, heading down an undesirable path, or making a poor decision, instead of jumping in and correcting them, say, "I have a trick/thought that may help. Would you like to hear it?"

If your teen says YES, progress.

They have basically agreed to listen to what you have to say. Keep in mind, they have not agreed to DO what you say, but at least they'll hear you out with minimal eyerolls.

If your teen says NO, don't go.

Your teen wasn't going to listen anyway, so why create unnecessary conflict by trying to force them? Instead say, "Okay. Let me know if you change your mind." Chances are that their curiosity will get the best of them and that leaves the door open to ask you later without losing face.

THE BOTTOM LINE

By asking permission and respecting their answer you allow your teen to feel empowered, respected, and heard. That's all they really want. It's also more likely that they'll say yes, the next time you want to offer them advice.

I'll be sending out a new Pro Parenting Tip every week to strengthen your skills and become the best parent you can be for your child. What could be more important than that?