Support Asset #2 - Positive Family Communication

If you have this asset, that means you can go to your parents for advice and support. You can talk with them about many different topics - even serious ones. \ Communication is a two-way street...you have to do your part to make it work. Get your parents, brothers and sisters to talk about themselves and show that you're listening. Soon they'll be asking you to talk about things that are important to you. Let's all try to practice some Positive Family Communication. Remember: "Assets Count."

TEN TIPS FOR TALKING TO PARENTS

1- Choose your time wisely. Talk to them when they have time to listen and aren't distracted.
2- Be respectful. They will be more willing to hear you if demonstrate respect.
3- Speak clearly and concisely. Say it and don't take forever.
4- When you approach your parents with a problem, come prepared with ideas for solving it. Let them see that you have thought about the problem.
5- Make a genuine effort to see your parents' point of view. Understand their feelings.
6- Watch your body language. Show that you're serious. Don't glare, point or roll your eyes.
7- Keep your voice down, please. Yelling just makes things worse.
8- Avoid "you statements" that imply the problem is all their fault. Instead talk about how you feel with "I statements".
9- Pay attention. Respectfully look at them when you talk and when they talk.
10- Be willing to compromise. Give a little and you might get a lot.