As parents and children, we constantly communicate with each other,
even when we're not saying a word. In fact, we CANNOT NOT communicate.
Think of the times you've known how another person feels just by the way
he or she enters the room. Is he happy? Is she upset? You can often tell
even without saying or hearing a word.
Communication between parents and pre-teens can be tricky and, at times,
frustrating. The kids are older and more sophisticated. Parents have new
expectations. Sometimes communications become strained. Tempers flare.
Barriers go up. We say things we later regret.
This guide can help in two ways. First, we've included a brief version
of the 1998 Philips National Family Communication Survey-"Let's Connect"
for you to take and compare your answers with the other members of your
family. Questions are for parents or
kids. Second, we have some tips (parents or kids versions)
on ways to improve how you communicate with each other.
