🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #119
My teenager only does what I say when I get angry. How do I get him to listen without force?
Rules only stick when the relationship behind them is warm, because without love instructions turn into battles. Teenagers accept guidance from people they feel love them, not from people who only watch for their mistakes. So invest in the relationship first: spend enjoyable time together, praise his effort, and show interest in his world without judging. When that bond is strong, your correction is heard because he knows it comes from love, not control. Try one warm gesture every day this week, such as asking about something he is interested in. Only after that discuss rules, in a tone of negotiation and not command. See educating the family.