Connecting To Your Teen in a Modern World

These days, teens are seemingly glued to their phones. Things that matter to them seem to be more on the side of video chatting with "followers" or playing mobile games, instead of interacting socially with their classmates or talking to their families. But this is the world we live in now: everything's changing... and changing fast. As parents to those teens, especially those coming from a different generation, how can you connect with them in this fast-paced, ever-evolving world? Believe it or not, there are ways you can still connect with your teen. All you need to do is open your mind and horizons a bit. Here's how you can still connect with your teens in a modern world.

Learning What Interests Your Teens

Some key trends in what teenagers like today indicate that there's a heavy focus on social media culture. But that's not all—teenagers, or the Gen Alpha of today, also care about social consciousness and identity. They pay more attention to topics like mental health issues and social justice. And, as it turns out, they're still interested in "traditional" things like music, fashion, sports, and relationships. Here are some topics your teen might be interested in:

Digital world dominance

Social media is a heavy player in your teen's life. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat are central to social life, with a focus on short-form video content and visual aesthetics. Online gaming and streaming (like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube) are also big among teens. With this interest also comes something parents should look out for: influencer culture. Influencers have taken the place of actors, authors, and artists as role models for teens these days. Many teens also aspire to be influencers, building their personal brands and engaging with audiences online. If they're not guided, teens may build up an unrealistic expectation for their future by choosing this career path.

Social consciousness and identity

Teens have become more aware of mental health issues and they're more open about discussing their mental struggles. Besides that, they're often passionate about diversity and inclusion with a strong emphasis on acceptance. Teens today often challenge stereotypes and celebrate individuality. As a positive result, they've also become more accepting of body positivity, focusing on self-love and rejecting unrealistic beauty standards. It's all part and parcel of their penchant for social justice. Teens nowadays are concerned about the environment and social issues. They may even start participating in activism early. Once again, parents should guide this journey in social justice for the most ideal outlook.

Traditional interests

Teens today may no longer buy CDs and stream their music through Spotify or Apple Music instead, but going to live concerts and music festivals is as popular as ever. Sports participation is the same; many teens engage in physical activities, follow pro athletes and matches, and even aim to be athletes themselves. Fashion and style also help teens express themselves more openly. Exploring romantic relationships and building strong friendships are also key aspects of teenage life. The parent's role in helping them go through these sensitive matters remains as influential as ever. This is one aspect of teen life that may never change.

Making a Genuine Connection

If you're interested in making a genuine connection with your teen, here are a couple of reminders:

Accept that they may have unique interests
Respect and don't judge them for those interests

It doesn't take much to connect with your teens. You don't even have to jump straight to the more "bizarre" ones like social media usage or video gaming.

Start small, start with the traditional

Check-in with your teen about their traditional interests. Ask them if they're seeing anyone or if their crush has talked to them. Remind them to be careful when they admit to having started dating and equip them with adequate knowledge to help them handle issues like sex, consent, and intimacy. It may be embarrassing at first, but at the most basic level, this is what your duty as a parent may be. Other than that, show interest in whatever they're listening to, reading, or playing. If your teen plays sports, come to their games and cheer for them. If your teen wants to go to a music festival, it wouldn't be a bad idea to go together. If your teen wants to shop for new clothes, offer to go with them or offer to buy them an accessory as a gift. These simple things will still strengthen your bond with your teen.

Go big, go serious

Once you've started the connection, take it a step further. You may not be social media savvy, but here's an idea: how about recording a video with your teen? Teens might delight in doing a dance meme with their parents, or simply showcasing how they can goof off with their parents in the kitchen. Don't be camera shy if your teen suggests recording a video together, but also don't push to be in all of their social media posts. Furthermore, find time to watch what your teen is into on streaming—perhaps a Star Wars series or a Netflix miniseries. Who knows, you might also find a new favorite show. Or perhaps instead of berating your teen for playing too much video games, ask them to teach you how to play so you can play together. And in all the topics that count like career path in social media, mental health, social consciousness and identity, and social justice, whatever guidance you can impart to your teen will be much appreciated. As these topics may have also evolved, invite your teen to learn the new updates on these matters together. A family that learns together, grows together, after all.