This post is made possible with support from the Center for Parent and Teen Communication, part of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. All opinions are my own.

Analyzing one’s feelings is a lifelong occurrence — a skill to practice & improve. As it relates to my children, it’s a welcomed milestone.

My teenage daughter has really matured in this area. She checks in with herself most of the time without being prompted. This was especially evident in a recent situation.

While doing homework, she mentioned feeling anxious. Of course, I dug deeper & asked for specifics. Fear & confusion were her top descriptions. I advised her to sit with the feelings for a while & see what else surfaced.

She came to me later still feeling anxious but with impressive clarity. I learned that at school, a couple of her friends seemed standoffish towards her. We discussed possible causes but without their input, we knew we could only assume.

I suggested my daughter contact them directly instead. She agreed and then went deeper by telling me why she felt so anxious.

She reminded me of a similar incident years ago, how excluded she felt, & how she spiraled afterward. That was a tough school year! Instead of taking that route again, she’s learning to analyze & communicate. I couldn’t be more proud!

To understand more about your maturing teenager, the Center for Parent and Teen Communication website is a valuable resource. Science-based strategies are used by the organization to support healthy family relationships.

Information on analyzing feelings & other milestones are brief but in-depth. I suggest reading them all & then let me know which milestones your teen has reached. Go a step further by signing up for their 100-word daily parenting tip newsletter.