Conversation Continued

MUTUAL CONVERSATION- A conversation is an exchange of ideas and information,not a lecture. Encourage the young person to talk and ask questions. Ask about his or her thoughts,feelings, and activities. Show that you want to learn from a young person as you hope they will learn from you. LISTEN- Listen to the young person  with whom you speak as closely as you hope that they would listen to you. Stop talking if he or she wants to speak. Give them your full undevided attention, and make eye contact. BE UPBEAT-Try to show a positive attitude as you lead the conversation. A critical, diapproving tone can prompt a young person to ignore you. DON'T GET DISCOURAGED- Young people often challenge what they hear from adults. If a young person questions what you say, DON'T ARGUE. Encourage the young person to check your information with another source, such as the CDC national AIDS hotline( 1-800 342-AIDS)  If your talk is cut short, don't give up.  It is important to try again.