12 Secrets for Successful Families - 5. Communication

WHAT IT MEANS

Genuine communication takes place when you and your children share a two-way exchange of thoughts and feelings.

WHY IT MATTERS

Communication can become especially challenging with teenagers.  Perhaps not long ago, "it was like you had a backstage pass to your children's lives" says the book Breaking the Code.  "Now the best you can hope for is a seat out in the audience, and it probably won't even be a very good seat."  Contrary to appearances, when this happens children need communication the most!

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Adapt to your children's timetable.   Do so even if that means late-night conversations.

"You might feel like saying, 'Now you want to talk?  I was with you all day!' but how can we complain if our children want to open up to us?  Isn't that what every parent hopes for?" -Lisa.

"I like my sleep, but some of the best conversations I've had with my teenagers have been after midnight." -Herbert.

BIBLE PRINCIPLE: "Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other." -1 Corinthians 10:24. 

Next time: 12 Secretes for Successful Families -Conclusion of 5. Communication

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