By Ms Nandita Sarma for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul, organised a highly engaging and insightful workshop for parents of students from Classes IX to XII on the theme “When Teens Talk and When They Don’t.” The session was conducted with the objective of helping parents better understand adolescent communication, emotional behaviour, and the challenges faced by teenagers in today’s rapidly changing social environment. The workshop was led by Ms Nandita Sarma, a professional counsellor, and was graced by the presence of the school’s Principal, Mrs Kalyani Chaudhary.

 The primary aim of the workshop was to enable parents to explore why teenagers sometimes open up and at other times withdraw, and to equip them with practical strategies to build trust, connection, and effective communication with their children. Through a blend of theory, reflection, and interactive activities, parents were encouraged to shift from reactive responses to more empathetic and supportive approaches.

 One of the key highlights of the session was the Iceberg Concept applied to teen communication, which helped parents understand that what teenagers express verbally is often only a small part of what they truly feel. The workshop also focused on the developmental realities of the teenage brain, explaining how the ongoing development of the prefrontal cortex and the dominance of the limbic system influence impulsive behaviour and emotional reactions in adolescents. The concepts of the “upstairs” and “downstairs” brain were explained in a relatable manner, enabling parents to better comprehend teen decision-making patterns.

 Another important aspect discussed was the Threshold Phenomenon, where teenagers oscillate between wanting independence and needing care. Parents reflected on their own styles of interaction through discussions on Connecting versus Correcting and Concerned versus Critical parenting. Activities comparing what parents hear with what teenagers actually feel proved particularly impactful. The session also highlighted the role of non-verbal communication, effective “door-opener” phrases, the DRAFT method for handling difficult conversations, and strategies to manage manipulative behaviour while setting healthy boundaries. Parents were also guided to recognise red flags that indicate when professional intervention may be necessary.

 Feedback from parents revealed deep introspection and learning. Many shared that the workshop helped them realise the importance of regulating their own emotions, practising patience, validating their teen’s feelings even during disagreement, and listening without immediately trying to fix problems.

 In conclusion, the workshop was a resounding success, marked by active participation and meaningful engagement. Parents expressed a strong desire for more such sessions, reflecting their growing awareness of the critical role effective communication and emotional connection play in supporting the overall mental health and well-being of teenagers.