This is the first episode in a five part series with Kathryn.  She's been struggling to deal with the roller coaster ride of parenting her 17 year old daughter, Bridgette. Bridgette has been making what most parents might consider risky choices.  Her choices surrounding sex and drugs has her mother extremely concerned and feeling unsure of how to best to parent her. She is afraid for her daughter’s safety and is feeling overwhelmed and panicked. This episode unpacks the complex issues underlying Bridgette’s behavior. Leslie looks at  how effective communication can support their relationship and will focus on questions such as: How do you establish a judgment-free line of communication with your teen?  How do you parent a child whose personality is unlike your own? How do you help your child navigate decision-making without imposing your own beliefs and judgements? Look for the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Is My Child A Monster?9:06  Raising our children will challenge us in ways that give us the opportunity to grow as people16:22 Begin where your child is16:55 An example of nonjudgmental language to open lines of communication.  Say what you see18:30  Be the curious alien - zoom out, zoom in depending on what you are dealing with.23:22  Parenting by the Paradox - Giving children the room to make mistakes27:06  Parenting is so much about the FIT between the parent and the child28:53 When does it work, when does it not work - A way to look at those qualities that drive you nutsLeslie-ism - The best insurance against life’s hardships for your child is the quality of your relationshipShow Note Links:Blog posting on  Understanding the importance of the "fit" between parent and child.Book reference: Kathryn spoke about a book that she was reading:  Girls & Sex:  Navigating the Complicated New Landscape by Peggy OrensteinIf you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, sexual assaults  or other mental health issues there are resources available for you. National Sexual assault hotline 800-656-HOPE (4763)National Substance Abuse Hotline 866-210-1303Substance abuse and mental health administration 1-800-662-HELP  (4357)National Alliance of Mental Illness 212-684-3264