Sometimes family conversations stay grounded in the need-to-do’s and should-have-done’s. But when was the last time you sat down with your teenager and asked a question that let him think big?

I often hear parents say they have trouble talking to their kids. The conversation falls flat, or the topics are mundane. Let me give you a few hints for starting conversations that go deeper:

First, ask a question and don’t give your own answer unless asked.

Second, don’t do anything to shut down their response.

And finally, get creative! Ask questions that can’t be answered “yes” or “no.”

Mom, Dad, try it. The conversations in your home will take off! And you’ll find yourself learning lots of new things about your teen.

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