STLMoms: Good Family Discussions

(STLMoms) – Do you have a teen who is able to hold their own during a family discussion? If so, a new study says they may be better able to resist negative peer pressure.  Psychotherapist Dr. Russell Hyken talks about a study out of the University of Virgina  that says a healthy debate is good for our children.

HOW DO YOU DO YOU PROPERLY ARGUE WITH YOU KIDS?
So, don`t, cut your kids off, minimize, or be sarcastic. Parents need to learn to understand how their kids are thinking, to see things from their point of view.

YOU HAVE A COUPLE OF TIPS TO ENSURE YOUR KIDS ON HOW TO ARGUE EFFECTIVELY.
-Model appropriate communication strategies and resolution skills. Keep voices low as yelling escalates the situation.
-Demonstrate listening by engaging in appropriate turn taking exchanges and respond with clarifying statements that convey understanding.
-End your arguments properly. Keep discussions short and resolve the conflict. Sometimes this will mean agreeing to disagree.
-Lastly, remember you are the parent. In the matters of health and safety, it is okay to lay down the law.

Listen, respond, and respect what they have to say even if you disagree.