Communication Between Teens, Parents Is Essential
After a recent teen forum where the age-old communications gulf between parents and teenagers was mentioned, The Spokesman-Review invited readers - both teens and adults - to submit the kinds of questions they find hard to discuss.
Two responses came back, tales of hope rather than frustration:
Arlene Giles, Spokane: “Being a parent of a 16-year-old, son, I can tell you that the two-way communication lifeline began the day our son was born. It continues today. Our son feels very comfortable in talking with his father and me as well as an older sister and her husband. There has never been a subject we couldn’t discuss.
“He was introduced at a young age to nightly news, informative programs - viewing as a family and having interesting discussions afterward. He’s read the daily newspaper ever since he could read. He and I enjoy the same authors and read the same books and have interesting discussions. His opinions are always welcome and certainly respected.
“Unfortunately, too many young people did not have the advantage of parents who had the skills and desire to start building that vital foundation that every child needs to flourish. It takes years for both child and parents to develop communication skills, and you practice it daily.
“I don’t see any ‘quick fix’ for parents and teens that want to start repairs now on something that doesn’t exist.
“We can hope today’s young parents will learn parenting skills necessary to raise their babies to be healthy, decent, caring, honest adults.”
Gina Benavidez, Spokane: “If I could tell my parents anything, I’d tell them how grateful I am to them.
“One thing that they have taught me is how to love, by showing their love for me. I Corinthians 8:1 says that love builds up. My parents have loved me and built me up to who I am.
“Not all teenagers have difficulty communicating with their parents. We teens must stop and think about how much our parents care for us. Their rules are for the best for our provision and our protection. We need to learn to appreciate their love for us, instead of only thinking of ourselves.”
What do you want to talk about?
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