Duties

How to support children with ADHD from Andrew fuller

by
children

So, your kid has ADHD. Where do you even start? The challenges can seem endless but don’t lose hope. You’ve got this. With the right knowledge and support children with ADHD from Andrew fuller don’t have to define your child or family.

In this podcast, psychologist Andrew Fuller dishes out practical advice for helping children with ADHD thrive. He explores how you can boost their mental health, build resilience, and embrace neurodiversity. You’ll get insights from expert guests and actionable tips for navigating school, friendships, and daily life.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or supporter, you have the power to make a huge impact. Fuller will show you how to engage kids with ADHD and set them up for success. Tune in, learn from the best, and get ready to better understand and advocate for the children in your life. This podcast is here to help in a big way.

Podcast With Andrew Fuller on Supporting Children With ADHD

If your child has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the best thing you can do is provide support. ADHD makes it challenging for kids to focus and control impulsive behaviors, but with compassion and practical strategies, you can help them thrive.

First, educate yourself about ADHD so you understand what your child experiences. Learn how to recognize symptoms and find the right treatment, which often includes therapy, medication, or both. Pay attention to your child’s unique needs and challenges. What helps one child may not help another.

Give your child structure and stick to routines. Set clear rules and limits while also offering flexibility. Provide reminders and minimize distractions. Help them break down big tasks into manageable steps. Offer praise and positive reinforcement when they follow the rules.

Find activities that capture your child’s interest and help channel their energy and impulsiveness in a positive way. Things like sports, art, music, and hands-on hobbies are great options. Make time for free play and outdoor recreation too.

Most of all, offer your love, acceptance, and support. Help build your child’s confidence and self-esteem. Give them opportunities to make choices and express opinions to foster independence. With the right treatment and support system, kids with ADHD can thrive and achieve great success. The challenges of ADHD do not define them, and with your help, their futures are bright.

Andrew Fuller’s Expert Tips for Parents of Children With ADHD

As an expert in child psychology and ADHD, Andrew Fuller has invaluable advice for parents.

Provide Structure and Routines

Establishing structure and routines is key. Have set times for waking up, meals, homework, and bedtime. Use schedules, calendars, reminders, and timers to keep kids on track. Having predictable patterns and procedures in place helps children with ADHD feel secure and minimizes distractions and disruptions.

Give Clear and Concise Instructions

Be specific in your directions and break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Have your child repeat the instructions back to ensure understanding. Give one direction at a time and avoid long, complicated commands.

Offer Praise and Positive Reinforcement

Provide frequent praise and encouragement for your child’s efforts and accomplishments. Give positive reinforcement through rewards and incentives when they achieve goals or complete chores and homework. Make rewards immediate and give them often, especially when first starting new routines or behaviors.

Set Reasonable Limits and Consequences

Set clear rules and limits to help your child develop proper behavior and learn self-control. Explain your reasoning behind the rules. Enforce appropriate consequences when those rules are broken, such as loss of screen time or an earlier bedtime. Be consistent yet flexible in your approach.

With the right combination of love, support, structure, and guidance, parents can help children with ADHD thrive and reach their full potential. The challenges may be great but the rewards of seeing your child succeed are even greater. Stay strong and remember, you’ve got this!

Classroom Strategies for Teachers Supporting Students With ADHD

As a teacher, you spend nearly as much time with students as their parents do. For children with ADHD, your support and guidance can make a world of difference. Here are some effective classroom strategies to help students with ADHD thrive:

Provide structure and routine

A predictable schedule and routine are comforting for students with ADHD. Explain your expectations and rules clearly. Give reminders about upcoming changes or events. Have set procedures for transitions, and ample time for the student to prepare.

Offer flexibility

While structure is important, also allows for some flexibility. Give the student options to choose from when possible. Find alternatives for physical movement, like squeezing a stress ball or taking short movement breaks. Provide extra time if needed for certain tasks like tests or assignments.

Use visual aids

Visual cues and prompts, like charts, images, and diagrams can help to focus attention and improve understanding for students with ADHD. When giving multi-step instructions, provide them in written form as well as verbally. Consider using visual schedules, timers, calendars, and task lists.

Give positive reinforcement

Provide frequent praise and incentives to students with ADHD when they follow the rules and accomplish their goals. Give encouragement and recognize their efforts and achievements, both big and small. This positive reinforcement will motivate the student to continue progressing.

Promote movement and exercise

Find opportunities for movement and physical activity, which helps students with ADHD to focus better. Even light activities like stretching or walking in place can help. When possible, incorporate physical elements into lessons. Take activity breaks as needed. Movement benefits the whole class, not just students with ADHD!

With patience, flexibility, and the right support strategies, you can create an environment where students with ADHD feel empowered to thrive. By making some simple adjustments and accommodations, you’ll find teaching students with ADHD rewarding and help them achieve their full potential.

Promoting Resilience and Positive Mental Health in Children With ADHD

Promoting resilience and positive mental health in children with ADHD involves surrounding them with support and helping them develop coping strategies. As a parent, teacher or caregiver, there are several things you can do to help build resilience in children with ADHD.

Provide Unconditional Support

Children with ADHD often face difficulties that can negatively impact their self-esteem and mental health. Offer your unconditional love, acceptance, and support. Help build their confidence by praising their efforts and strengths. Be patient and help them learn strategies for overcoming obstacles. Let them know you believe in them.

Teach Problem-Solving Skills

Help children with ADHD become better problem solvers. Walk them through the steps to identify problems, come up with solutions, evaluate options, and try different strategies. Start with small issues and have them think of solutions. Provide guidance but let them do as much as possible themselves. These skills build independence and resilience.

Promote Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Exercise, sleep, and nutrition are essential for well-being and managing ADHD symptoms. Encourage children to get outside and engage in regular exercises like walking, biking, or swimming. Aim for 1 hour of physical activity per day. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to get 9-11 hours of sleep per night. Provide a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods like fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugar and processed foods.

Help Them Find Their Passions

Helping children discover and pursue their interests and talents boosts confidence, motivation, and resilience. Expose them to a variety of activities to find what sparks their passion, whether it’s art, music, volunteering, gaming, or something else. Support them in pursuing their interests and encourage them to stick with challenging activities. Success in an area of passion can help build resilience.

Connect Them to Role Models

Seeing others with ADHD succeed can inspire children and give them role models to emulate. Share stories of successful people with ADHD like gymnast Simone Biles, entrepreneur Richard Branson or comedian Howie Mandel. Connect children to mentors and support groups to build their network. Finding like-minded peers and role models strengthens resilience and mental health.

FAQs:

As a parent of a child with ADHD, you likely have many questions about the condition and how best to support your child. Here are some of the most common questions and answers:

How do I help my child focus?

Provide structure and minimize distractions. Have a routine, schedule, and rules. Give one instruction at a time and check that your child understands directions. Use timers, schedules, calendars, and reminders. Offer rewards and positive reinforcement for focusing.

Should I give my child medication for ADHD?

Medication, along with behavior therapy, can be helpful for some children with ADHD. Stimulants are commonly prescribed and can help improve focus, attention, and impulsivity. Work closely with your doctor to determine if medication is right for your child, and to find the proper type and dosage. Medication is not for every child, and there are alternative treatments, so explore all options.

How can I help my child in school?

Meet with teachers and work as a team. Sit at the front of the class. Provide an organizer or planner for assignments. Give instructions one step at a time. Offer praise and rewards for good work. See if your child qualifies for special education services or a 504 plan. Ask about reducing workload or making accommodations when needed.

How can I best handle behavioral issues?

Be patient and flexible. Provide clear rules and reasonable consequences when those rules are broken. Use positive reinforcement like praise, rewards, and quality time together. Give your child opportunities to be physically active and burn off excess energy. Set timers to encourage transitions and breaks. Seek counseling or behavioral therapy for strategies tailored to your child’s needs.

The most important things are educating yourself about ADHD, working with professionals, providing structure and patience, and offering your child love and support. While ADHD presents challenges, the good news is that the symptoms can be managed well so your child can thrive. With the right treatment and support system in place, children with ADHD can achieve their full potential.

Conclusion

So there you have it, some practical advice straight from the expert himself on how to support kids with ADHD. The challenges that come with this condition are real, but so are the strengths. Focus on building your child’s confidence, give them opportunities to move and be active, set clear rules and boundaries, and encourage their interests. Most of all, remember to show them love and acceptance for who they are. While parenting any child comes with ups and downs, children with ADHD thrive when surrounded by support systems that understand them. You’ve got this! Now go out there and help your kid achieve their full potential. The future is bright.

Remember, the greatest reward of parenting lies in watching
your children soar with love and confidence.

Till then keep smiling and be happy 😊

Worth Reading 👇

Exploring Parenting Styles and Media Use: A Deep Dive into Common Sense

by
Parenting

In today’s digital age, media use among children has become an increasingly important topic for parents. As technology continues to advance, parents are faced with the challenge of balancing their children’s exposure to various forms of media with their own parenting styles. This article aims to delve into the world of parenting styles and media use, with a particular focus on the insights provided by Common Sense Media (CSM) and the Parent Media and Technology Use (PMTCU) research center.

Why Media Use and Parenting Style Matters

Parenting style and media use are two critical aspects of modern child-rearing that intersect in numerous ways. With the proliferation of smartphones, tablets, and computers, children have unprecedented access to screen-based media from a very young age. This raises important questions about the impact of media consumption on child development and how different parenting styles influence these outcomes.

In this article, we’ll explore:

  1. Parenting Magazines and Their Role in Shaping Parenting Styles
  2. The Influence of Acknowledgment in Parenting
  3. The Association Between TV Viewing and Parent-Child Relationships
  4. Screen Time Guidelines for Children: Insights from National Institutes of Health
  5. Media Use and Child Development: The Research Question
  6. Media Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic
  7. Digital Childhood and Its Implications for Parenting
  8. Screen Exposure and Its Impact on Health
  9. Expert Advice on Managing Screen Time
  10. The Role of Supportive Communities in Balancing Media Use

1. Parenting Magazines and Their Role in Shaping Parenting Styles

Parenting magazines have long been a source of guidance for parents seeking information on how to navigate the challenges of raising children. These publications often provide advice on a wide range of topics, including media use. However, the information presented in parenting magazines can vary widely, reflecting different parenting styles and beliefs.

Common Sense Media, a well-known resource for parents, offers reviews and recommendations for media content suitable for children of all ages. By acknowledging the diverse needs of parents and children, Common Sense Media helps parents make informed decisions about what their child watches, plays, and interacts with.

2. The Influence of Acknowledgment in Parenting

Acknowledgment is a fundamental aspect of effective parenting. Parents who acknowledge their child’s interests and preferences in media content are more likely to build a positive and open parent-child relationship. Common Sense Media’s approach recognizes the importance of acknowledging children’s individuality and tailoring media choices accordingly.

3. The Association Between TV Viewing and Parent-Child Relationships

Numerous studies have explored the association between TV viewing and parent-child relationships. Understanding how media consumption impacts the dynamics between parents and children is crucial. We’ll delve into the research findings on this topic and explore ways parents can create a healthy balance between screen time and quality time with their children.

4. Screen Time Guidelines for Children: Insights from National Institutes of Health

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers guidelines for screen time among children. We’ll discuss these guidelines and the role they play in shaping parenting practices and attitudes towards media use.

5. Media Use and Child Development: The Research Question

Researchers have posed critical questions about the impact of media use on child development. We’ll explore these research questions and the findings that have emerged from various studies in this area.

6. Media Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically altered daily routines, including how families manage media use. We’ll examine how the pandemic influenced media use among children and the strategies parents employed to adapt to these changes.

7. Digital Childhood and Its Implications for Parenting

As digital technology continues to evolve, children are growing up in a world vastly different from that of previous generations. We’ll discuss the concept of a “digital childhood” and the challenges it presents to parents.

8. Screen Exposure and Its Impact on Health

Excessive screen exposure can have adverse effects on a child’s health, including issues related to physical activity, nutrition, and mental well-being. We’ll explore the research on this topic and provide insights into how parents can mitigate these risks.

9. Expert Advice on Managing Screen Time

Parenting experts and organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Kaiser Family Foundation offer valuable advice on managing screen time. We’ll highlight their recommendations and provide practical tips for parents.

10. The Role of Supportive Communities in Balancing Media Use

In today’s connected world, supportive communities and networks play a vital role in helping parents make informed decisions about media use. We’ll discuss the importance of seeking guidance from peers and experts in the field.

Key Takeaways

  • Parenting style plays a significant role in shaping how parents manage media use in their households.
  • Common Sense Media provides valuable resources for parents to make informed decisions about the media content their children consume.
  • Acknowledgment of children’s preferences is essential for building a positive parent-child relationship.
  • TV viewing can impact the dynamics between parents and children, making it crucial to find a healthy balance.
  • The NIH’s screen time guidelines offer a framework for parents to manage their child’s media exposure.
  • Ongoing research explores the impact of media use on child development and raises important questions for parents to consider.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic led to shifts in how families manage media use, highlighting the need for adaptability.
  • The concept of digital childhood presents new challenges and opportunities for parents.
  • Excessive screen exposure can have adverse effects on a child’s health, emphasizing the need for moderation.
  • Seeking advice from parenting experts and supportive communities can help parents navigate the complex landscape of media use.

In conclusion, the relationship between parenting styles and media use is a multifaceted one that warrants careful consideration. By staying informed and actively engaging with their children’s media consumption, parents can create a healthy and balanced environment that supports their child’s development while respecting their individuality. Balancing media use and parenting practices is an ongoing journey that requires adaptability and a commitment to fostering positive parent-child relationships in the digital age.

Pros of Media Use in Parenting Styles:

  1. Educational Content: Media platforms offer a wide range of educational content, such as educational apps, documentaries, and interactive games. These resources can enhance a child’s learning experience.
  2. Entertainment and Relaxation: Well-chosen media content can provide a source of entertainment and relaxation for both parents and children, offering a break from the demands of daily life.
  3. Social Connection: In an increasingly digital world, media can help children stay connected with friends and family, especially in cases of long-distance relationships or during periods of isolation.
  4. Parental Guidance: Parents can use media as a tool for teaching important lessons and values. They can watch educational shows or engage in media-related activities with their children, fostering shared experiences.
  5. Information and Resources: Media outlets and parenting magazines provide valuable information and resources that can assist parents in making informed decisions about various aspects of child-rearing.
  6. Technology Proficiency: Exposure to media and technology from an early age can help children develop essential digital literacy skills, which are increasingly important in today’s world.

Additional Resources

For parents looking to delve deeper into the topic of media use and parenting styles, there are numerous additional resources available. Some of these include:

  • Common Sense Media: Common Sense Media (CSM) is an invaluable resource for parents seeking detailed reviews and recommendations for movies, TV shows, books, apps, and games suitable for children of all ages. Their website offers a wealth of information to help parents make informed choices about media content.
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): AAP provides guidelines and recommendations on various aspects of child health, including media use. Their insights are grounded in scientific research and can help parents understand the potential impact of media on their children’s well-being.
  • Parenting Magazines: Don’t overlook the value of parenting magazines in shaping your parenting style. These publications often feature articles and advice on media use, among other parenting topics.
  • Online Parenting Communities: Joining online parenting communities and forums can be an excellent way to connect with other parents facing similar challenges. These communities often provide a platform for sharing experiences and seeking advice.

Cons of Media Use in Parenting Styles:

  1. Excessive Screen Time: Excessive screen time can have negative consequences on a child’s physical and mental health. It may lead to sedentary behavior, reduced physical activity, and sleep disturbances.
  2. Content Quality: Not all media content is suitable for children, and inappropriate or violent content can negatively impact a child’s development. Parents must be vigilant in monitoring what their children are exposed to.
  3. Diminished Social Skills: Overreliance on screen-based media can lead to diminished social skills in children, as they may spend less time engaging in face-to-face interactions.
  4. Impact on Academic Performance: Excessive media use can interfere with a child’s academic performance, as it may lead to distractions from homework and other educational activities.
  5. Strain on Parent-Child Relationship: In some cases, disagreements over media use can create tension within the parent-child relationship. Setting and enforcing screen time limits can be a source of conflict.
  6. Health Concerns: Excessive media use has been linked to a range of health concerns, including obesity, poor nutrition choices, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
  7. Privacy and Safety: Children’s online activities can pose privacy and safety risks, as they may unknowingly share sensitive information or interact with strangers. Parents must educate their children about online safety.

 FAQs

Q1: How much screen time is appropriate for my child?

A1: The appropriate amount of screen time varies depending on your child’s age, but general guidelines recommend limiting screen time for children aged 2 to 5 to one hour per day of high-quality content. For older children and teenagers, it’s important to strike a balance between screen time and other activities, such as physical play, homework, and socializing.

Q2: Can media content really be educational for my child?

A2: Yes, media content can be educational when chosen wisely. There are many educational apps, games, and TV programs that are designed to promote learning. Look for content that aligns with your child’s age and interests and has a clear educational purpose.

Q3: How can I ensure my child’s online safety while using media?

A3: Online safety is crucial. Set up parental controls, educate your child about safe online behavior, and encourage open communication. Teach them not to share personal information and to be cautious about interacting with strangers online.

Q4: What is the impact of excessive screen time on my child’s health?

A4: Excessive screen time can have adverse effects on physical and mental health. It can lead to issues like obesity, poor posture, sleep disturbances, and may contribute to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. It’s important to monitor screen time to prevent these health risks.

Q5: Should I completely ban screens for my child?

A5: Total screen bans are not always practical or necessary. Instead, focus on setting reasonable limits and promoting quality screen time. Encourage a balance between screen-based activities and other essential aspects of childhood, such as physical play and face-to-face social interactions.

conclusion 

media use in parenting styles and child development comes with both advantages and disadvantages. The key lies in moderation, informed decision-making, and open communication between parents and children. By carefully curating media content, setting reasonable screen time limits, and engaging with children about their digital experiences, parents can harness the benefits of media while mitigating potential drawbacks. Ultimately, a balanced approach to media use can contribute positively to a child’s growth and development.

How to help your teen be a good person

by
Teen

You want the best for your teen, right? You want to empower them to become responsible and caring adults. The teen years can be challenging, but also full of opportunity. As parents, our role is to guide them through all the changes and help them learn life skills to prepare for independence.

The truth is, the best way we can help shape our teens into good people is by being good role models ourselves. Our words and actions have a bigger impact than we realize.

When we show them how to treat others with kindness, empathy and respect, they learn from our example. The coming years will fly by, so make the most of this time with your teen.

Get involved in their passions and interests. Keep the lines of communication open. Set clear rules and reasonable consequences. Give them opportunities to make choices and learn from their mistakes. With your support and encouragement, your teen can build a strong foundation for becoming a caring, responsible and good person. The future is bright!

Be a Positive Role Model – Lead by Example to Encourage Good Choices For your Teen

As a parent, you have the biggest influence over the person your teen becomes. Lead by example through your own positive choices and actions.

Teen good behavior.

How you handle teen challenges, treat people, and talk about others says a lot. Make sure your words and actions align with the kind of character you want to see in your teen. Show them how to be kind, courteous and respectful in all situations.

Discuss your values.

Have open conversations about the values and morals that are important to your family. Explain why certain choices are right or wrong. Set clear rules and reasonable consequences when those values are not upheld. Be fair and follow through with discipline when needed.

Praise their efforts.

Provide positive reinforcement like verbal praise, rewards and quality time together when you notice your teen making good decisions or progressing in a positive direction. Let them know you appreciate their efforts and the person they are becoming.

Find shared interests.

Bonding over shared interests, hobbies and passions is a great way to stay connected with your teen. Support them in the activities they care about. Attend their events. Ask them questions and listen when they talk about things that excite them. Strengthening your connection will make them more open to your guidance.

Set a curfew and monitor activity of your teen.

  • Be actively involved in your teen’s life by setting clear rules around curfew, monitoring where they go and who they spend time with. Get to know their friends and the friends’ parents. Make your home a welcoming place for their friends to hang out. Staying on top of their activity and whereabouts will help ensure they avoid negative influences and make good choices.
  • With patience, understanding and the right approach, you can empower your teen to build positive character and make choices that shape them into responsible, caring adults. But it starts with you – be the role model they need.

Maintain Open Communication – Create a Judgment Free Zone for Honest Discussions With Teen

To stay close with your teen, make communication a top priority. Create an open environment where they feel comfortable coming to you about anything, without fear of judgment.

Have daily check-ins

Take time each day to catch up with your teen and see how they’re doing. Ask open-ended questions about their friends, activities, classes, and interests to start meaningful conversations. Show interest in the things they care about. Even quick chats can help build trust and bonding.

Be fully present when talking

When your teen does want to open up, give them your full attention. Make eye contact, listen without distraction, and be genuinely curious. Repeat back what they said to confirm you understand them. Your teen will appreciate your focus and it will encourage them to keep sharing.

Address issues together

If problems arise, tackle them as a team. Have compassion for your teen and try to see the issue from their perspective. Come up with solutions and compromises together, rather than dictating rules. Your teen will learn problem-solving skills and that you support them, even when times get tough.

Share your experiences too

While it’s important to listen to your teen, also open up about your life. Talk about your interests, friends, challenges you face, and the lessons you’ve learned over the years. Sharing your experiences can help build closeness and allow your teen to see you as a real person, not just a parent. Maintaining open communication and creating a judgment-free zone at home will help ensure your teen feels comfortable coming to you for guidance and support. Make the time to strengthen your connection – it will benefit you both for years to come.

Help Them Discover Their Passions – Support Their Interests to Build Confidence and Responsibility

Help Them Discover Their Passions – Support Their Interests to Build Confidence and Responsibility
  • Encouraging your teen to explore and pursue their interests is one of the best ways to help them develop life skills and a sense of responsibility. When teens have passions and hobbies they care about, it gives them motivation and helps build confidence from gaining knowledge and experience.
  • As a parent, help facilitate your teen discovering what sparks their curiosity and excites them. Expose them to a variety of activities, clubs, volunteering opportunities and subjects to help them uncover hidden talents or interests. If they show interest in something, offer to help them get more involved by finding local programs or events related to that interest or hobby. Give them opportunities to gain valuable skills through their interests, whether it’s learning to code by building an app, developing public speaking skills in a debate club or gaining mechanical skills by rebuilding a car engine.
  • Support your teen fully in pursuing their interests and passions. Help them set goals to work towards and praise their efforts and achievements. Attend their events and competitions when you’re able. Encourage them to take on more responsibility in their interest or hobby over time. Help them see how their passion can translate into a career path or college opportunities. Having your guidance and involvement will make the experience even more meaningful and help strengthen your bond.
  • Passions give teens purpose and motivation, as well as a sense of independence and freedom. Helping your teen discover and pursue their interests will empower them with life skills that build confidence from gaining valuable knowledge and experience. With your support and encouragement, their interests can shape them into responsible and well-rounded individuals.

Teach Important Life Skills – Budgeting, Cooking, Laundry, Etc. Set Them Up for Adulthood

Teaching your teen important life skills now will set them up for success as an adult. Focus on budgeting, cooking, doing laundry, and other daily tasks they’ll face on their own.

Budgeting

Have your teen do research to compare phone plans, car insurance, rent costs in your area, and other expenses they’ll soon take over. Show them how to track income, pay bills, and spend within a budget. Give them opportunities to budget for their own expenses to gain real-world experience.

Cooking

Teach your teen some simple, nutritious recipes they can make on their own. Walk them through grocery shopping, meal prep, and cleaning up after cooking. Start with basics like pasta, rice and beans, omelets, and sandwiches. Have them cook 1-2 meals each week to build confidence in the kitchen.

Laundry

Demonstrate how to properly wash and dry clothes, as well as how often different items need cleaning. Have them start doing their own laundry each week, with you available to answer questions as they learn. Show them how to pretreat stains, sort clothes, choose proper settings, and fold or hang clothes after drying.

Other Skills

Additional life skills to focus on include

  • -Time management: Help them create schedules and to-do lists. Have them estimate how long tasks will take.
  • -Problem-solving: Discuss possible solutions to common issues they may face like disputes with roommates, job or relationship problems. Help them think through pros and cons.
  • -Communication: Practice active listening, sharing feelings in a constructive way, and resolving conflicts respectfully. Set a good example with your own communication.
  • Giving your teen opportunities to learn and practice these life skills with your guidance will build their confidence and independence, setting them up for success on their own. Make yourself available to answer their questions without judgment as they stumble or struggle. Your support and patience through the learning process will empower them to become responsible adults.

Involve Them in the Community – Volunteerism Teaches Empathy and Builds Character

  • Volunteering in your local community is one of the best ways for teens to develop empathy, build character, and become responsible citizens. As a teen, volunteering opens you up to new experiences and exposes you to people from all walks of life. It helps build compassion and understanding for others.
  • Look for volunteer opportunities that match your teen’s interests and passions. If they love animals, suggest volunteering at an animal shelter. If they enjoy working with kids, volunteering at a children’s hospital or tutoring program is a great option. There are many places that would appreciate teen volunteers like food banks, homeless shelters, parks and recreation centers, places of worship, museums, and more.
  • As a parent, encourage your teen to make a regular commitment to a volunteer role. Having a set schedule helps them develop discipline and accountability. Praise their efforts and the positive impact they are making. Share stories of people who have been helped or lives that have been changed. This reinforcement will motivate them to continue and inspire them to take on more responsibility.
  • Volunteering also provides valuable work experience that will benefit them for college applications and future jobs. They can discover hidden talents and interests, all while strengthening their time management, communication, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting. Guide your teen to reflect on their experiences through discussions or journaling. Help them articulate the skills and lessons they are gaining from their volunteer work.
  • When teens give back to the community, it cultivates a sense of purpose and helps shape them into caring, empathetic, and principled young adults. Make volunteering a family affair and set an example through your own participation in local causes you care about. Raising children who contribute value to society in a positive way is one of the greatest gifts you can give. Get started today!

Conclusion

So there you have it, parents. Some tips to help your teen become a good person with a strong moral compass. It may seem like a challenging road ahead, but with your guidance, support, and by leading by example, you’ve totally got this. Stay involved in their lives, have real conversations, give them opportunities to make choices and learn from their mistakes. Help them pursue their passions and support their interests. Most of all, express your belief in them and your confidence that they can become caring, principled, responsible adults. With your help, the future is theirs to shape. You’ve raised them well so far, now empower them to use that foundation to go out and make a positive difference in the world.