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Expert Q&A
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| By Susan Bartell Licensed Psychologist | ||
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I'm scared by the heavy topics that are facing my 10-year-old. How can I communicate about these issues with?
It is important to face your fears! If you don't, your worry and anxiety will affect her and not only make it difficult for you to have the important conversations you need to have, but also give her the message that you're not someone she can come to when she has tough questions, problems or worries. When talking to your daughter, it is best to be open and to ask at least as many questions as you answer. Try and anticipate the issues before they occur, like getting her period, social pressures, drinking, drugs and making healthy choices. By opening up the lines of communication in advance, the topics will be easier to talk about when she is actually confronted with them. Look for teachable moments – TV shows, commercials, and stories that you hear about relationships, problems that girls have, pressures and family issues can all be opportunities to approach the "big" topics with her and help you to both realize that you and she are not alone in this new path you are facing over the next several years.
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