When you want to discuss important things with your child you have a choice of a formal conversation versus an informal conversation.

I have found having an informal conversation is far more effective. Going for a coffee with my son and talking about soccer and then discussing an important matter gets the matter on the table. Later, I can follow up formally since we have already chatted about it. However, if I start with a formal chat, he turns off, viewing it as a lecture from his Dad.

Each child is different, however, knowing what works best can make a difference to the results.