The Joys of Raising Teenagers

I was remembering how difficult it was at times to 'read' my teenage daughters body language when trying to talk to them about issues or poor decisions, and how often I failed at knowing when was or wasn't the right time to 'talk' to them.  With this modern age of technology anything you want information on is right at your fingertips...so to save you some time and hopefully some heartache and struggles, here's an article I found on line to help you with The Joys of Raising Teenagers.

How to Read Teen Body Language

By Jennifer Patterson, eHow Contributor

Parents who have teenage children sometimes find it difficult to communicate with them. Learning to read teen body language is one way to get an idea of what they are trying to tell you. Communication skills, just like any other skills, must be learned. Teens are known to use body language more frequently than words. If you study your teens and observe their various body language, you will be able to communicate with them in a more effective way.

Instructions

o     Read teen body language by looking at the arms. When a person crosses their arms, this is usually an indication that he wants to be left alone. Your teenager may not be in the mood to talk at that moment. If his hands are relaxed at his side, he is more open to talk to you.

o     Look for nervous gestures when reading teen body language. Fidgeting with hair or scratching the head repeatedly may mean that the teen is nervous about something or trying to hide something from you.

o     Notice the eye movements when reading teen body language. You can tell if the teen is interested in what you are saying or if her mind is wandering. If the teen keeps looking away often while you are talking, that normally means that there is no interest in what you are saying.

o     Look at the head movements. Sometimes a person may hold his head down. That may mean that the person is ashamed about something. It could also mean that the person is in deep thought.

Tips & Warnings 

Some teens may have different body language than others.

And remember, it never hurts to say a quick quiet prayer before you begin your talk or discussion with your teenagers.