The art of speaking not texting

[freakshow999]

Our teenagers (like most) live by text and IMs. In our house their preferred method to communicate with us is by text. When they are out - the same (ok I get it that it isn't cool to be seen talking or acknowledging you have parents and are not an indepedent entity).

Should I be relieved that at least they are communicating with us in some form OR is it stunting their ability to speak? I mean that in all seriousness!
How will they handle a job interview? They won't be able to pass the time by glancing down at the iPhone. Interviews and social interaction involve eye contact and moving the lips!

[Kosakova]

My youngest DD is 20 and permanently attached to her phone. She's always been a child that doesn't particularly like spending time with us, prefers her bedroom, etc. Since she went to Uni, I only get actual phone calls if it's something urgent or she is upset. However, I learnt very early on that she will quite happily talk via Facebook messaging. It's almost as if she has time to consider her answer before giving it to you. Despite all this, she successfully manages to juggle her second year at Uni (for which she obviously had an interview) and a part time job as a bar person in a night club and a pub when she is at home for the holiday.s I would be grateful they are still communicating with you and don't worry about the interviews, etc. You'll probably find they do lots of interacting with friends at school or college, just not you!

[Ticktacktock]

We're having this problem ATM. She can't make phone calls unless to a friend, and can't get a job as she can't bring herself to speak to someone face to face. Obviously because she has no experience of it and has spent 3 years texting and messaging.

I understand completely, but have no advice. I just think they'll get there in the end, cos they HAVE to.

[YeOldeTrout]

be relieved they communicate.
Teen DS refuses to even have a phone & teen DD ignores texts. Sigh.