Importance of Photos

When we display pictures in our home it helps boost our kids self esteem and confidence. Today we we are talking about not just the importance of photos, but images of mom (or dad) with just one child.
Connecting with your teen through pictures
This is the first prompt in the connecting with your teen challenge in The Year of the Teenager. Click the link to see the challenges as they unfold throughout the year. If you missed the announcement on January 1st, read all about it at We were all Teenagers Once. If you’d like more general tips for family pictures, I’ve got a ton on my photography website, check the links!

displaying photos

I’ve been talking for years about the importance of photos and displaying them in our home. It sends a message to our children that we see THEM as valuable, works of art, and brings a sense of camaraderie. Through seeing themselves on display in the home, it helps them feel safe and secure. Isn’t that what we want our teens to feel at home?
My hope for this first connecting challenge is about the one-on-one relationship you are striving to develop with your teenager.  Whether you are in a rough patch with your teen, or sailing smoothly, showing them you want to connect is important for long term preserving the relationship.

Whether you make a special outing to get a fun shot of you two or just take one at home, print at a photo lab or on regular paper at home, place a picture of you + your child to display in your home or in their room. Here are a few creative ideas to take and display photos:
  • At the park
  • hometown mural
  • yogurt shop selfie
  • at your favorite restaurant
  • cuddling on the couch
  • in a hammock

Once you have a picture you like, display it, and share it on social media as a BONUS and what you love about this child. Use hashtag #WeWereAllTeenagersOnce and tag me so I’ll see!

mother and teen son picture

The TRUSTED Mom Reset

A quick video to help you stop feeling like a failure as a mom and
start feeling confident in your parenting—without needing to be perfect.

Welcome Friend!

I'm Kristen Duke!

If your teen is pulling away from you,
I want you to know that you don’t have to lose them.
There’s hope.
I have a message you need to hear:

Other Blog Posts:

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Kristen Duke

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—a transformative two-day workshop designed to help you rebuild trust, enhance communication, and lead your teen with confidence.

Day 1: SEE Differently

​You’ll uncover hidden connection crushers and learn to spot key moments when your teen needs you most, ensuring you seize vital opportunities to connect—so you can be the mom they turn to, not pull away from.

Day 2: DO Differently

​​You’ll ​master having tough conversations without power struggles, repairing mistakes while maintaining respect, and shift from reactive parenting to confident leadership.—so your teen listens and actually wants to talk to you.
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This conversation allows her to understand your unique challenges and aspirations, ensuring the workshop content is tailored for you. It also confirms your commitment to attending and engaging fully in both days of the event. THIS IS NOT A SALES CALL; it’s my way of tailoring the experience to you. Upon confirming your call, I’ll provide the workshop access link.​​

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(I’ll also email you a summary of the video you just watched 😉 – I’ve got you!)

The TRUSTED Mom Reset

A quick video to help you stop feeling like a failure as a mom and
start feeling confident in your parenting—without needing to be perfect.

Welcome Friend!

I'm Kristen Duke!

If your teen is pulling away from you,
I want you to know that you don’t have to lose them.
There’s hope.
I have a message you need to hear: