How to stay in touch with your teen.

According to psychologist Lauren Solotar of the May Institute, it is vital that parents touch base with their adolescents. These are the years they need you most. To facilitate dialogue,
Solotar suggests the following:

- Get to know your teen’s best communication times, and avoid serious discussion when he or she is tired or irritable.

- Ask open-ended questions on subjects that are of interest, but not threatening, to your child.

 -Share information about your own adolescence, but use good judgment.

- Show concern or express how you feel about an issue. It is important for your kids to understand what you are thinking and why.

- Carve out time to get to know school personnel, your teenager’s friends, and other parents.

- Make sure your kids always can get in touch with you.