Mastering “Micro-Conversations”

Mastering the “Micro-Conversation”

Long, heavy lectures usually lead to eye rolls and tuned-out kids. Instead, aim for frequent, short chats about life, relationships, and substances. Focusing more on micro-conversations can make a big difference by creating a more casual, low-pressure situation where your child may feel more comfortable and open to conversation.

Active Listening

Use these techniques to practice Active Listening to help your child feel heard:

  • Be fully present: Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and give them your undivided attention.
  • Avoid making judgements: Focus on the present and soak in the information your child is sharing with you. Avoid making assumptions or jumping to conclusions.
  • Ask open-ended questions: Skip questions that can be answered with a simple “yes,” “no,” or “fine” (like “How was your day?”). Instead, use prompts that encourage them to share their perspective, such as:
    “How did you feel when that happened?”
    “What do you think you should do next?”
  • Resist the urge to “fix” it: As parents, we often want to fix problems or tell our kids what the right thing to do is. Instead, empower them to problem-solve by asking “How do you think we can make this better?”
  • Restate what you hear: Show that you are listening and understanding correctly by asking “Am I right that you were feeling ….?”
  • Find teachable moments: Use a scene in a TV show, a news story, or a local event to spark a casual conversation about the risks of substance use.
Talk. They hear you.

Not sure how to start? Download the “Talk. They Hear You” app.

The app guides you through interactive simulations to practice having realistic, low-stress conversations with your child about substance use.