#267: Why Teens Can Seem Distant and How to Stay Connected

#267: Why Teens Can Seem Distant and How to Stay Connected

Author: Kim John Payne/Center for Social Sustainability June 20, 2025 Duration: 6:31
The Simplicity Parenting Podcast with Kim John Payne
EducationSelf Improvement

Kim John Payne offers a view of adolescence by comparing teenage emotions to an artesian water flow. While younger children often express their feelings outwardly, teenagers tend to turn inward. Their emotional lives may seem hidden, but underneath the surface there is a deep, steady movement as they process and explore. Kim encourages parents not to force immediate responses but instead to place low key questions and allow space for a teen’s thoughts and feelings to emerge when they are ready. He describes the importance of patience, of knowing that even in silence there is growth. When the artesian waters do rise, perhaps through a sudden burst of conversation about friends or school, parents can be present to receive what is shared. Trusting in this deeper flow helps maintain connection through quieter phases.

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Kim John Payne, author of the bestselling book "Simplicity Parenting," brings his decades of experience as a family counselor and educator directly to you in The Simplicity Parenting Podcast with Kim John Payne. Each episode feels like a thoughtful conversation, moving beyond quick tips to explore the deeper rhythms of family life. You’ll hear practical wisdom on reducing the clutter-not just of toys, but of schedules, expectations, and digital noise-that so often overwhelms modern childhood. This podcast delves into how creating a calmer, more predictable home environment can strengthen your child's resilience, focus, and sense of security. Payne addresses real questions from parents, offering grounded strategies for everything from sibling rivalry and screen time to fostering authentic play and emotional well-being. The discussions are rooted in the understanding that simplifying isn't about deprivation, but about making space for connection and growth. Tune in for a supportive, nuanced exploration of parenting that honors the unique spirit of your family. Each weekly episode serves as a gentle reminder that the most meaningful moments often arise from a less hurried, more intentional approach to life together.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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The Simplicity Parenting Podcast with Kim John Payne
Podcast Episodes
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