Try describing the facts only without judgement or pointed statements. For example, say “I received an email from your teacher telling me you missed three assignments last week.” Then follow-up by asking, “What happened?”, “How do you plan to make this up?” Keep all judgements out of the conversation and allow the teen to take accountability and problem solve.
If you are looking for more specific strategies for parenting youth, join us for a virtual (via Zoom) Parenting Teens program on Wednesday evenings starting on February 4th, 2026. For more information and to register, go to our events calendar here.
Tip of the Week – January 26 – 30, 2026