The Power of Support Responses

Let's Do This

It can sometimes be tough for young people to share with adults. Regardless of whether you're a family member or other caring adult in their network, kids might feel hesitant to open up about themselves. Communication expert and CNBC contributor Matt Abrahams suggests support responses as a way to encourage young people (or anyone!) to share.

For instance, "tell me more" is a support response that encourages the other person to keep talking, focusing the conversation on them rather than shifting it back to yourself. Employing this phrase and other support responses can help your young person feel more comfortable opening up and eager to share. 

Stay Inspired

Practice using the "tell me more" approach with your young person. If they mention they enjoy sports, ask questions like "What aspects of sports excite you?" or "How did you first become interested in that?"