Talk today. Trust tomorrow.

"Strengthening children and adolescents’ connection with their families, schools, peers, and other adults is an important protective factor that can reduce the effects of stressful life events and teach skills to overcome them."

- The CDC

Parents and families play a critical role, often being the first to help their children develop skills to recognize and manage emotions, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

Good communication between parents and children is the foundation of strong family relationships.

Communication helps parents catch problems early, support positive behavior, and stay aware of what is happening in their children's lives.

• Choose a moment when you can give your child your undivided attention, making the conversation meaningful and impactful.
• Enter the discussion with a clear plan and organized thoughts to guide the conversation smoothly.
• Maintain a calm and patient demeanor, ensuring a supportive and open dialogue.
• Create a distraction-free environment by turning off phones and other devices, allowing for genuine connection.
• Agree on a time frame for the conversation to keep it focused and respectful of each other’s time

• Show interest and concern without assigning blame; ask, “That sounds difficult. Were you confused?” instead of “How did you get into this situation?”
• Promote problem-solving; say, “What do you think would have been a better way to handle that?” instead of “What did you think was going to happen when you don’t think?”
• Listen and Observe: Youth are more likely to share issues with parents who listen without judgment.

• Encouragement builds confidence, helps you promote cooperation, and then reduces conflict

What Doesn't Work

• Sarcasm or negativity
• Comparing a child to siblings or friends
• Taking over if a child is slow to progress

Avoid

• Addressing pressing issues.
• Assigning blame or belittling the other person.
• Assuming the other person's intentions.
• Defending yourself; practice the art of letting go.
• Rehashing past grievances.
• Giving lectures

• Encourage brainstorming by generating three ideas each, taking turns.
• List the positives and negatives for each idea and combine them if needed.
• Ensure everyone agrees on the chosen solution.
• Follow up after trying the solution to assess its effectiveness; if it’s not working, revisit the ideas and brainstorm further if necessary. Clinical Application: Problem-solving is a practical skill in recovery and parenting. Practice it in session to help clients reduce power struggles and focus on repair, not control.

This will be updated as events are scheduled.

Email: prevention-health@lakecountyil.gov
Website: health.lakecountyil.gov
Location: 3010 Grand Ave, Waukegan, IL, USA
Phone: 847-377-8770
Facebook: facebook.com/healthdepartment
Twitter: @LakeCoHealth

Email: info@communitytheantidrug.org

Website: https://communitytheantidrug.org

Phone: 224-765-CTAD (224-765-2823)

Office Locations:

Deerfield & Highland Park High Schools

Mailing Address:

433 Vine Ave., Highland Park IL 60035

Funded in whole or in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery through a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.