Today’s success tip comes from Father Chris Riley.

Chris’s nationally acclaimed Youth Off The Streets organisation runs a huge, multimillion-dollar array of enterprises from residential farms in the country to detox centres and food vans. More than 60,000 children have passed through his projects. Today he still runs this incredible country and has been recognised for his leadership skills many times.

What is the best way to encourage young people to open up to you?

It is imperative that you have a relationship with the young person. You must spend time with them, chat about the everyday things that interest them and be there when they are facing challenges.

Showing that you are fighting for them lets them know that you are in their corner. For example, attend court appearances with them, visit and write to them in lockups or when they are in hospital.

Trust is only given when they feel safe with you; safety is created by having clear boundaries and understanding young people. You must try to build them up by acknowledging their goodness and strengths. Putting them down and using negative labelling ensures nothing productive will be achieved.

Also, ask the hard questions up front (don’t beat about the bush) - often when confronted directly, young people respond directly and honestly.

What are your top tips for parents with teenage children?

1. Talk, talk, talk to them.

2. Every young person needs a fan club - be that fan club for your teenagers.

3. Remember ‘behaviour is language’ and understand the non-verbal cues used by teenagers to communicate.

4. Encourage your teenager to get involved in volunteer work and, if possible, participate with them. For example, help the RSPCA, walk the pound dogs, visit an elderly person’s home, plant trees, join Clean Up Australia.

5. Glance at problems, gaze at successes.

6. Adults who want to get close to their kids need to do the simple things that develop trust and make lasting bonds. If you don’t spend time with your kids, then the kids won’t come to you when they are in trouble or need your guidance.

If you’re after more great advice like this one, check back again next time.

Until then,

Allan Poole.