Why trust is the number one factor in establishing good communication with your tween — and how you can start building trust today

Without trust, there is no relationship.

“Trust is the glue of life. It’s the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It’s the foundational principle that holds all relationships.” ~ Stephen Covey

Building trust is simple (not easy). Here’s how to get started.

Eliminate doubt

One lie casts doubt on all future conversations.

Make it easy for your tween to tell you the truth. Even when that truth makes you inwardly scream, cry, or panic. Hear them out.

Focus on integrity

It builds trust when your tween does what they say they’ll do.

Thankfully, it goes both ways. When you do what you’ve said you’ll do, your tween will trust you. And when they trust you, they’re more likely to communicate.

Listen with curiosity and kindness

Choosing kindness frees us to listen to the heart of what our tweens are telling us.

When your tween feels like it’s safe to be honest with you, it builds trust. (Even if you don’t like what they’re doing or are inwardly panicking about what you hear.) Be curious about the choices they’re making, the experiences they’re having, and the issues that are keeping them up late at night.

And be kind.

Kindness doesn’t mean there are no consequences. It means you’ll follow through on what you’ve said. And when you say you’ll be there for them no matter what — they’ll believe you.

Be a trustworthy parent

The tween years are an emotionally challenging time. But your relationship will thrive when your tween is confident they can trust you with their big feelings.

Read this post and more on my Typeshare Social Blog