Tuning in to Teens is a universal parenting program for parents of children aged 10 years and over. The program aims to increase parent-child connection by improving emotional communication in the family.

The program provides parents with a greater understanding of their teen’s emotional experiences while teaching specific skills that can assist in being supportive, empathic and staying connected with the young person. The program builds on the Tuning in to Kids program, which has been shown to have positive effects on young children. The program teaches parents and carers emotion coaching skills while focusing on the developmental needs of teenagers (11 – 18 years old).

There is a greater emphasis on acceptance/empathy and helping parents and carers to manage their own responses when adolescents reject or push them away as they seek greater autonomy.

Randomised control trials have shown that the program improves parent-teen relationships and adolescent mental health.

If you want to know more about the background, philosophy and research on Tuning into kids click here;