One of the instructions I give to parents on a regular basis is this: Meet weekly with your teen.

It doesn’t matter what your schedule looks like, or how many after-school activities your teen has. Put a date on the calendar every week to meet one-on-one. At first your conversations will most likely stay on the surface, what friends say on Facebook or how their brothers and sisters drive ‘em crazy. Silly stuff.

But give it time. Eventually this date with your teen will lead to deeper conversations. Soon you’ll begin hearing your child’s heart, and understanding him better. You might even get a shot to impart some wisdom in an engaging way.

So don’t wait! Put it on the calendar. Meet weekly with your teen!

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