Affirm the parent's questions and experiences with empathy. Don't get defensive or take it personally if they are upset about the policies/laws.
Lead by listening. Ask open-ended questions to better understand the parent's concerns so that they don't feel dismissed.
Avoid complicated language. Provide reference materials about the policies/laws and break down what they mean and why they were enacted.
Be in partnership with the parent. Acknowledge the parent wants to keep their child safe and healthy and that you do, too!
Encourage parents to communicate with their child in all areas, but point out that some topics are harder than others.
Empower the parent and the child by gradually shifting more of the decision-making responsibilities from the parent to the child. This puts the child on a great path of taking charge of their health for the rest of their lives and making healthy decisions.
