36. Why Giving Advice Too Soon Can Shut Down Communication With Your Teen

This episode first aired under the original name, The Parenting Reset Show. Now we are the Single Parenting Reset podcast–supporting single parents of tweens and teens with real talk on screen time, communication and managing behavior.

Want a parenting approach that builds trust, belonging, and lifelong lessons — step by step?

In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, talks with parenting experts Sonja Montiel and Hilary Bilbrey about their “Decided Heart Companioning” technique and the H.E.A.R.T framework: Hold Space, Empty Cup, Assess for Action/Accountability, Review Discussion, and Trust-Building. They break down how to use this method with authenticity, patience, and emotional control so your tween or teen feels truly seen, supported, and empowered.

• Learn the five H.E.A.R.T steps to strengthen connection and belonging in your family.
• Discover how to mentor tweens and teens through challenges without taking over.
• Understand the role of virtue words in shaping positive and lasting communication.

Press play to learn how the H.E.A.R.T method can help you raise confident, connected, and resilient young adults. 

Here you can access the PDF file on the virtue words that Sonja and Hilary discussed in the podcast: DHE Virtue Word List and HEART Handout       

📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected]  Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com

🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: Parent Reset Call

⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Mindful Kids and Families

⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here:  https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)

The Single Parenting Reset Show supports single moms, working moms, and all parents with practical parenting tips on screen time, emotional regulation, co-parenting, stress relief, setting boundaries, building trust, and raising confident tweens and teens, while tackling tech addiction, behavior problems, and parent burnout with conscious parenting strategies for stronger family connection.

#singleparents #parentingtweensandteens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #Communication