Wondering how to talk with your tween or teen about privacy, secrets, and trust (without your kid shutting down)? We got you.
As our kids grow up, their developmental need for independence and privacy grows, too. And that often collides with our need to keep them safe. They spend more time in their rooms and start keeping things to themselves. And suddenly, you’re left wondering: What should I still know? What’s normal regarding teens and privacy (and what’s a red flag)? And how can I navigate this shift without pushing my kid away?
Our free printable, Talking About Privacy, Secrets, and Trust, gives you the exact questions about teens and privacy to:
- Understand what privacy means to your teens and why it matters to them.
- Talk through the difference between healthy privacy and unsafe secrecy.
- Set boundaries that feel respectful, not suffocating.
- Explore how trust is built (and sometimes broken) in friendships and families.
- Learn how your child navigates peer pressure, online sharing, and personal boundaries.
How to use these conversation starters:
- Pick the right moment. Try a car ride, afternoon snack, or even a text.
- Ask with curiosity. Your goal is to understand, not to fix or correct.
- Keep it casual and avoid “we need to talk” vibes. One or two questions at a time are all you need.
- Listen more than you talk. These are “conversation starters” about teens and privacy, not “lecture starters.”
Hey, Mom, normalize the awkwardness by confessing: “I might fumble this, but your feelings and what you need matter to me.” And don’t be afraid of the hard stuff, like if your child shares a secret or reveals a mistake. These chats strengthen your relationship by showing your child she can come to you about anything.
Download your free conversation starters about teens and privacy now, and start building deeper trust with your kid today.
