Be the harbour

Teens often hear about a friend's troubles before any adult does. HarborDojo teaches them to be a harbour: a safe place to come alongside, not a fix-it shop and not a therapist.

The moves are simple to say. Validate ("That sounds really hard"). Ask before advising ("Do you want ideas, or do you want me to listen?"). Sit with it. Gently point towards one small step. And when it is bigger than a friend can hold, bring in an adult.

You can practise the same moves with your teen. They are just as useful at your kitchen table.