"I don't understand why, but my kid just doesn't want to open up to me."

"My child is facing some issues recently. I'm asking why, but he's not answering."

"Should I be concerned about the fact that my child doesn't want to talk to me?"

Do any of these sound familiar to you? Are they questions that you, as a parent, find yourself asking?

A parent-child relationship is one of the most unique and enduring bonds ever. No matter how much damage is done, both parties can't really give up on each other. Whatever happens, this kind of love will never fade. It's something every child can count on.

As a child myself, I understand very well how much my parents did for me, even if I don't express it openly. For one, I've never been an expressive person when it comes to intricate and delicate feelings.

However, I will always appreciate that they allowed me to explore the unknown for my own growth, something many Asian parents would never think of doing. I'm grateful for all the different adventures and for the many opportunities I never imagined I'd have.

To my parents, you are my definition of "cool parents." Thank you for letting go and believing in my words, even when you weren't fully supportive of the idea. Thank you for allowing me to pursue what I believe in.

As a child myself, what gives me the biggest motivation in life is trust and support from my parents. Without these, everything gets more difficult and lonelier.

I've never been a believer of the "My parents are my best friends" attitude, especially given the many gray areas and constraints on both ends. Being a parent is already one of the most difficult jobs in the world, so let's not force all these desires and expectations upon them.

However, despite my parents not being my best friends, they are definitely my greatest supporters in life. And that is more than enough.

As parents, it is important for you to understand the definitions of "boundaries" and "privacy." When your child is growing up, they expect you to view them as a young adult with respectable opinions.

Mutual respect is essential in every relationship. It makes or breaks the entire relationship. And the parent-child relationship is not an exception to this.

Be open-minded to whatever your child is telling you. Please don't interrupt and simply jump to conclusions. Always be a good listener. It would be easier for us to confide in you without having a lecture ahead of us.

I can't emphasize the "don't interrupt" part enough. It is a common mistake made by most parents whenever they get agitated about what their child is telling them.

Please stop that. You are just killing the conversation. Instead, let your children finish their piece. Then you can start to give your input. Communication is a two-way street.

Making the whole conversation negotiable and pleasing would be much appreciated by them, and they'll be assured that they can always approach you.

In some situations, your children may tell you to leave them alone. When that happens, please do.

Why? We all need space sometimes. Otherwise, it would be suffocating. Perhaps, they are not ready to open up to you just yet.

Assure them that they can always approach you whenever they need to. Trust your children's words, and believe that they can stand with it.

Give your children constructive criticism. This can help them to become improved versions of themselves. Do not simply throw cold water on them in an attempt to show your authority as a parent.

Lastly, never assume. Always allow your children to be authentic and transparent about their feelings. Never make them feel that there is a need to put up a strong front.