Building trust with your teenager involves affirming their worth and showing you are on their side.

: "I’m so proud of your hard work recently. I know it will pay off!"

: "You have such a unique sense of humor. You crack me up!"

: "You give the best hugs. I'm so glad you're mine."

Connecting with a crush or boosting a bond with a teenager requires different texting styles. Whether you are looking for flirty conversation starters or ways to strengthen a relationship with your own child, here are some options:

: "I have a challenge for you... Try not to smile when you see my name pop up on your screen."