EARLY YEARS: Get your teenage son to talk about important topics

ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) - Whether it’s school or friends or more challenging topics like sex or bullying, it’s tough to get teenage boys to talk.

“So often times, we think we should go into their room. We knock, but we often kind of charge in because we’ve got business to do to talk about and we just start piling it on. Instead, we suggest starting with a simple question, “Hey, what’s going on, do you have a minute to talk?” And respect their time right off the bat," says author Joanna Schroeder.

Schroeder has three kids of her own, including two sons.

She, along with teacher and parent Christopher Pepper have co-written a guidebook for parents titled, “Talk to Your Boys: 16 Conversations to Help Tweens and Teens Grow Into Confident, Caring Young Men.”

“Parenting boys, especially in this teen and tween age, you really have to be attentive so I actually encourage parents, put your own phone down sometimes to be attentive, be attuned. You’re looking for those moments where you can slide in a little conversation,” says Pepper.

Pepper and Schroeder spoke with dozens of expert and surveyed more than 80 boys and young men between the ages of 10 and 22.

Schroeder says using less intimidating body language is crucial when talking to your son.

She says to sit shoulder to shoulder, not eye to eye.

“And keep moving. That’s a big thing we learned from some of our experts that the more you’re moving, the more their guard tends to come down,” says Schroeder.

They also point out, discussions might take a different turn than you expect, and that’s okay.

“This is a lot about following their lead, getting to actually know them as the people they’re developing. Kids are developing into adults and you want to get to know them and keep those connections open,” says Pepper.

For details on the book, and how to order it, click here.