Here’s the hard truth: your teen athlete/performer might be hiding struggles because they don’t want your common reaction. You tend to activate full-blown Fixer Mode! This doesn't make you a "bad parent" but there is a better way to approach this situation and the opportunity for growth and improved connection is waiting for you.

In our bantering and discussion in this episode we call out the mistake we ALL make as parents because we love our offspring so much! We want to FIX their problems for them when sometimes they just want and need us to listen in a way that creates some safety and space to get something off their chest. Asking questions that allow them to be open and honest sets you up to coach your teen athlete/performer into creating their own solutions and building confidence. All without turning every moment into a lecture or a fix it session.

Let's gooooooooooo Most Valuable Parents!

The Timestamps

00:00 Understanding Teen Struggles

02:33 The Role of Parents as Fixers

05:30 Listening vs. Fixing: The Emotional Safety

08:13 Effective Communication Strategies

10:57 The Detective Approach to Parenting

14:00 Supporting Teen Growth and Independence

Takeaways

-Teens may hide struggles to avoid parental "fixing."

-Parents often jump into problem-solving mode too quickly.

-Emotional safety is crucial for open communication.

-Listening is more important than providing immediate solutions.

-The "curse of knowledge" can hinder effective parenting.

-Asking questions can empower teens to find their own solutions.

-Parents should adopt a "detective" approach to understand situations better.

-Fixing problems can sometimes damage the parent-teen connection.

Hey there Most Valuable Parents! We are creating a world-class podcast for parents of teen athletes and performers on YouTube. We can also be found on the other usual places you get your podcasts like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

New episodes drop every MONDAY.

We would be most grateful if you would SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel where our unique show for parents of teen athletes and performers resides. The name of our podcast is the same name as our YouTube channel: The STOP PARENTING & START COACHING Podcast!

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And, there’s more–there always isn't there?! If you’ve read this far you probably are totally nerdy and giddy about helping teen athletes and performers to excel. Click here to pick up our 100%

-Nate & Steve