If getting your child to open up feels like pulling teeth, you’re not alone.
When working with young children and teens, I often use games as part of the process. This includes card games and board games, but also games specifically designed to get kids thinking, reflecting, and processing.
Why? Because games can help kids talk about their emotions and better understand themselves.
Why Standard Talk Therapy Doesn’t Work With Kids
With kids, there really is no other way, in my opinion. Standard “talk therapy” just ain’t going to cut it!
Truth be told, I think many parents make a similar mistake. They wonder why their child isn’t “opening up” to them. They’re confused about why their kid is so reclusive and doesn’t share more about himself.
When they ask, “How was your day?” and get a response like “Okay, I guess,” they feel frustrated and annoyed.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Opening Up Is a Skill
First things first: We need to recognize that having a meaningful conversation isn’t always easy for a preteen or teen. Some kids are naturally forthcoming and engage comfortably with adults. But many would rather keep to themselves, focus on their phones, or talk to their friends.
So let’s stop putting so much pressure on them to “share.” Opening up is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice and development.
Magic Tricks for Getting Your Child to Open Up
That said, there are ways to encourage kids to open up.
Think of it like magic. A skilled magician knows how to direct people’s attention, keep them focused on one thing, and subtly maneuver things behind the scenes.
In a similar way, there are techniques that can help your child ease into a conversation without feeling like they’re being questioned or put on the spot.
Before you know it, they’re sharing thoughts and feelings they might never have volunteered in a traditional sit-down conversation.
Curious to learn a few of these magic tricks?
Stay tuned for some practical ways to connect with your child and get those conversations flowing! Continue with Part 2: The Magic Tricks of Getting Your Child to Open Up.
If your child has gone quiet and nothing seems to help, my family counseling and teen counseling and parenting support services can help you reconnect.
Looking for support with your child? Get in touch here or call 678-977-0515.
Related reading: Tug of War with Teens: What’s Actually Going On? | Don’t Miss the Beauty of Family Life