Calvert County Health Department

Tips for Talking to Teens

Guidlines for Being an Askable Adult

Be approachable. 
Set aside time to listen and talk with your child.  To hear and understand what your child has to say, try to block out all distractions.

Listen.  
Maintain eye contact and show interest by nodding your head while your child talks.  Your body language signals you’re interested in what your child is saying.

Respect your child’s viewpoint.  
Remember how it was when you were your child’s age.  Accept and show respect for your child’s thoughts and feelings.  As an adult, you have more life experiences than your child.  Share your thoughts and values but not before your child has expressed theirs.

Encourage questions.
Be open to your child’s questions.  This can clear misunderstandings and also gives your child the chance to express his/her opinion.  When answering your child’s questions, follow up by asking if he/she understands.  Be willing to repeat your responses.

Admit you don’t know it all.   
It’s okay not to have all the answers.  If you don’t know the answer to a question, suggest you find the answer together.

Additional Information:
Tips for Talking to Teens
STD Update  
Asset Building Ideas for Young People 

Contact Info:
K.C. Bellin 410-535-5400 x 342
Email: CommunityHealthCCHD@dhmh.state.md.us