Daisy Turnbull: How to Talk to Teenagers

Teenagers have a big reputation for being hard to talk to. How can you find that spark of connection with your teen? Is there a way to set up a channel of communication so that you can help them through the rough patches?

In this episode Andrew talks to Australian teacher and author Daisy Turnbull about her new book, 50 Questions to Ask Your Teens.

Daisy shares insights from her work as a teacher, as well as from her own teenage years growing up in a household where both parents had high-profile and demanding careers.

Building a habit of positive communication with teenagers is possible, according to Daisy. Strategies include:

⚡️Asking “what do you think about that?”, and “tell me more?”.

⚡️Having some family rituals, such as a gratitude practice around the dinner table. 

⚡️Choosing your moment: car-trips are perfect as they don’t require direct eye contact and are timebound.

Andrew and Daisy also discuss the impact of social media on teens, building kids' independence and confidence, managing your career around your family and sharing parenting responsibilities.

Daisy Turnbull is an author, teacher, mother and Lifeline volunteer who lives in Sydney, Australia.

Follow Up

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Read Daisy Turnbull’s books 50 Questions to Ask Your Teens and 50 Risks to Take With Your Kids.

Follow Daisy Turnbull on Twitter @ms_dzt

Watch "It's Not About the Nail", the hugely popular YouTube video mentioned by Daisy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4EDhdAHrOg

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Read Andrew’s book on building a stronger relationship as parents: I Love You But You Always Put Me Last: How to Child-Proof Your Marriage

Listen to some of our other parenting episodes:

• Philippa Perry on on What You Wish Your Parents Knew & What You Hope Your Children Learn,
• Lisa Marchiano on Being a Mother,
• Jack Underwood on Becoming a Father,
• Anita Cleare on Positive Parenting 
• Amanda Seyderhelm on Coping With Childhood Grief.  

Andrew offers regular advice on love, marriage and finding meaning in your life via his social channels. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube @andrewgmarshall