EDITOR ’ S PICK
• Encourage empathy by discussing feelings freely . Talk about yours , talk about theirs , and discuss examples in movies . Ask them to notice facial expressions , body language , and tone of voice , and see if they can learn to tell what others may be feeling through their non-verbal communication . Help your teen understand different perspectives and to see how another ’ s point of view may differ from his . Be a positive role model for showing empathy to others .
• Help your child find new and creative outlets for self-expression . Many teenagers enjoy music , writing , sports , dance , theater or other art forms to be therapeutic and helpful in releasing emotions . These activities can also help your child take healthy risks , learn problem-solving skills , practice understanding social cues , and develop independence .
• Stay connected to your teen . While it is important to set boundaries and guide your teen , you must also let them unfold . They need grace for their awkwardness and high emotions . Even when they resort to being disrespectful with us , we must step up and treat them with respect and dignity . This is how we set an example for adult behavior . And when they seem to be pushing us away , we must find ways to stay close and above all , we need to convey unconditional love .
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