Are you longing for a stronger connection with your almost grown kids, but finding it challenging because it feels like you're speaking different languages? Many parents face this dilemma. You may have resorted to nagging and lecturing your kids thinking it will make them listen and understand, but let's be honest, that approach doesn't work. Fortunately, there's a better way. Join renowned experts, Dr. Meg Meeker and Dr. Emily Kline, as they engage in an enlightening discussion on effective strategies to bridge the communication gap with your almost grown kids. Their conversation focuses on: The art of effective communication to build stronger relationships with your almost grown kids. Practical tips on setting healthy cell phone use boundaries for teens. The importance of showing genuine interest in your teenager's life and how active listening can make a huge difference. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 The Challenges of Communicating with Older Kids 00:03:48 Giving Kids Control and the Power of Active Listening 00:05:25 Redefining a Parent's Job 00:07:12 Communicating with Troubled Teens 00:10:43 Working with Parents and the Limitations of Parenthood 00:15:17 The Importance of Understanding Why Kids Say They Hate School 00:16:09 Motivational Listening and Self-Actualization 00:19:11 Motivating a 16-Year-Old Boy to Study 00:21:26 Addressing Unhealthy Eating Habits in Teenagers 00:31:01 Parents' Power to Limit Phone Use 00:31:33 Can Kids Make Good Decisions? 00:32:49 Monitoring Kids' Phone Usage 00:33:20 Privacy vs. Parental Involvement 00:34:32 Key Takeaways and Book Recommendation ABOUT OUR GUEST EMILY KLINE, PHD is a clinical psychologist and writer in Boston. She has held faculty positions in psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. Released in April 2023, The School of Hard Talks: How to Have Real Conversations with Your (Almost Grown) Kids is available for purchase in bookstores, via Amazon and other online retailers! Dremilykline.com | Instagram: @learnaboutmilo FROM THE PRODUCER If you found today's content helpful, please consider sharing it with another parent and subscribing to stay updated on future episodes. You can also visit meekerparenting.com for free resources and the chance to sign up for parenting coaching. Get Social with Dr. Meg on Facebook & Instagram @MegMeekerMD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices