Ah, the teenage years! A time of growth, change, and sometimes a bit of angst. Here are 10 things your teenage daughter could really benefit from hearing from you:

1.”I love you unconditionally.” This might seem obvious, but hearing it explicitly, especially when she feels she’s messed up or you’re disagreeing, can be incredibly grounding.

2.”It’s okay to make mistakes. That’s how we learn.” Taking the pressure off perfection allows her to try new things and not be paralyzed by the fear of failure. Share some of your own mistakes and what you learned from them.

3.”Your feelings are valid.” Even if you don’t understand why she’s upset or frustrated, acknowledging her emotions helps her feel heard and understood. You can say something like, “I hear that you’re really upset about this.”

4. ” You are strong and capable.” Teenagers often face new challenges and can doubt their abilities. Reminding her of her inner strength and past successes can boost her confidence.

5.”I’m here for you, no matter what.” Knowing she has a safe space to turn to, without judgment, is crucial. Let her know you’re constant in her life.

6. It’s important to be true to yourself.” The pressure to fit in can immense during adolescence. Encourage her to value her individuality and make choices that align with her own values.

7. “Your voice matters.” Encourage her to express her opinions and stand up for what she believes in, respectfully. This empowers her and helps her develop her own identity.

8.”You are beautiful inside and out.” In a world saturated with often unrealistic beauty standards, remind her that her worth comes from within and that true beauty encompasses kindness, intelligence, and character.

9.”I’m proud of the person you are becoming.” Acknowledging her growth and positive qualities can be a huge motivator and source of encouragement. Focus on her efforts and character, not just achievements.

10. “Let’s talk.” Regularly creating opportunities for open and honest conversation, even about the small things, builds connection and trust. Show genuine interest in her life and listen more than you talk.

These simple phrases, spoken with sincerity, can make a world of difference in your teenage daughter’s life. They build foundation of love, trust, and support that will help her navigate the challenges and joys of adolescence.