How to talk to teenagers

Be interested instead of trying to be interesting. Notice something specific, ask about it, and listen.

Most conversations with teenagers stall because the questions are generic. "How was school?" is easy to answer with one word. Specific questions are harder to dodge and more fun to answer.

KAROTI uses a simple sequence: Notice something real. Ask about it. Listen without fixing. Follow the thread by picking up something they said. Share something small of your own.

Timing matters. Side-by-side works better than face-to-face: in the car, cooking, walking. And silence is okay. You don't need to fill every gap; the gaps are often where they decide to say more.

Try this · Next time you're together

Notice, ask, listen

1.Notice one specific thing: what they're watching, wearing, playing, or eating.
2.Ask about it with curiosity: "What's that?" or "What's good about it?"
3.Listen. Don't correct, advise, or teach.
4.Pick up one word they used and ask one more question.
5.Share one small thing from your day. Then let it be.

Find them. Ask: “What was interesting today?” Then just listen.

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KAROTI offers practical ideas, not medical or mental-health treatment. If you're struggling, please talk to a qualified professional or someone you trust.