Teenslator FAQ

Be specific about the task and timeframe, offer a simple choice (now or in 10 minutes), use a short timer, and praise completion. Avoid sarcasm or debating tone—keep it brief and neutral.

Break chores into 5–10 minute chunks, attach a small reward (music, screen time), and set a predictable time for tasks earlier in the evening. Consistency beats intensity.

Use low‑stakes, specific questions (1–10 scale, either/or). Reflect what you hear, don't interrogate, and try side‑by‑side talking (car, walk) to reduce pressure.

Respect the preference while setting safety limits (hydration, shade, breaks). Offer breathable layers as options and save battles for higher‑stakes issues.

Agree on a time limit, use a waterproof timer or playlist length, and schedule bathroom slots. If needed, adjust water heater mixing to discourage marathon showers.

Ask permission first: 'Want ideas or just a listener?' Validate feelings before sharing 1–2 brief suggestions. Revisit later if emotions are high.

Set a family norm: text is OK for quick checks, but for requests say 'Come here, please' within a minute. Keep it consistent and calm.

Normalize hygiene without shaming. Provide a hamper and trash can, set a laundry day, open a window/air out weekly, and consider a simple cleaning checklist.

Involve them in meal planning once a week, offer a predictable protein/fiber snack after school, and serve smaller portions with a no‑pressure 'tastes' rule.

Don't escalate over the eyeroll. Address behavior, not the expression. Model calm, set expectations privately, and reconnect later when emotions are down.

Create a simple budget/allowance, ask for specifics or a photo, and use reimbursement or payment requests to track spending. Teach how to compare costs.

Give think time, try either/or or multiple‑choice, and break big questions into smaller steps. Avoid rapid‑fire follow‑ups.

Identity exploration is normal. Avoid calling it out in front of peers; discuss values and boundaries privately. Host hangouts to observe dynamics.

Define 'done' with a short checklist and a quick photo of the finished task. Use 10‑minute sprints and remove blockers (supplies, unclear steps).

Create clear borrowing rules: a visible 'Yes Shelf,' what's off‑limits, and how to ask. Follow through with predictable consequences if items go missing.

Ask consent first, agree on sharing rules, let them choose from a few shots, and don't post without approval. Respecting privacy builds trust.

Aim for a consistent sleep/wake window, limit late screens, charge the phone outside the room, place the alarm across the room, and use morning light. Consult a doctor if issues persist.

Schedule a homework block earlier, use 20/5 focus cycles, put the phone in another room, and teach backward planning from due dates.

Buy duplicates of favorites if possible, set a simple hygiene/laundry rhythm, and focus limits on health or dress‑code needs, not style preference.

Ask concrete questions (time/place/yes‑no), use an image or meme to invite response, and switch to a quick call only when necessary.

Leverage side‑by‑side moments (car, chores, walk). Keep it short, ask open questions, and leave space for silence so they can think.

Notice and name small positives, keep invitations low‑pressure, limit nagging, and show steady care. Affection often looks quieter in the teen years.