How to Support Your Teen Through the Tough Years

Raising a teenager isn’t easy — but it is possible to stay connected. In this episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson sits down with Dr. Janine Domingues to explore how caregivers can support teens through adolescence — from emotional shutdowns to risky behavior to the weird world of YouTube. Together they unpack: • What’s really going on in the adolescent brain • How to connect with your teen even if they won’t talk to you • The power of shared rituals, from car rides to diner breakfasts • Why you should care about what they care about (yes, even Minecraft) • How to model communication — and stay regulated when they roll their eyes • Tips for keeping teens safe around drugs, alcohol, social media, and more • What to do when your teen shuts you out Whether your child is 13 or 18, this conversation offers practical insights for building trust, maintaining open communication, and guiding kids through one of the most intense developmental phases of their lives. ⸻ Resources for Parents & Teens: 🔹 Communicating with Teens childmind.org/article/tips-communicating-with-teen/ 🔹 Teens and Young Adults Resource Center childmind.org/topics/teens-young-adults/ 🔹 10 Parenting Tips for Preteens and Tweens childmind.org/article/10-tips-for-parenting-your-pre-teen/ 🔹 How do I help my child through the challenges they face in the teen years? childmind.org/positiveparenting/teen-challenges 🔹 Principles of Parenting: Communicating with your Teen aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family/principles-of-parenting-communicating-with-your-teen/ 🔹 Talking to Your Teen About Healthy Relationships riseandshine.childrensnational.org/talking-to-your-teen-about-healthy-relationships/ 🔹 What Should I Teach My High School Aged Teen About Relationships? https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/parents/high-school/what-should-i-teach-my-high-school-aged-teen-about-relationships#:~:text=You%20can%20help%20them%20expect,think%20makes%20a%20good%20relationship.