Parents of Teens

Is your child being bullied, how parents can help?

by
child

You send your kids off to school each day expecting them to learn and grow into responsible, caring individuals. But what if your child is dealing with bullying? As a parent, it can be hard to determine if your child is being bullied or just experiencing the normal ups and downs of childhood. The truth is, that bullying is more common than you might think, and it’s critical for parents to take an active role in addressing it. In this article, we’ll explore the signs that your child may be the target of bullying, strategies for opening up the conversation, and key steps you can take to put an end to bullying and create a safe environment for your child. You have the power to make a difference.

Ask Your Child Directly if They Are Being Bullied

Asking your child directly if they’re being bullied is the best way to find out what’s really going on. Sit down with them in a quiet, private place and have an open, honest conversation. Let them know you’re concerned for their well-being and happiness. Assure them you’re there to listen without judgment and provide support.

Some warning signs to look out for include:

-Unexplained injuries, damaged or missing belongings

-Changes in eating or sleeping habits

-Avoiding social situations or activities they used to enjoy

-Dropping grades or loss of interest in schoolwork

Once you’ve confirmed the bullying, work with your child on a plan to put an end to it. Contact their teachers, school administrators, and parents of the perpetrators. Make it clear that harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. You may also want to report cyberbullying to the police and internet companies.

At home, offer your child extra love and encouragement. Reassure them that there’s nothing wrong with them and they don’t deserve to be treated this way. Help build their confidence and self-esteem through positive reinforcement. Consider enrolling them in self-defense or martial arts classes to empower them.

The key is providing a strong support system. Stay actively involved in resolving the situation, set clear rules against bullying, and make sure the lines of communication remain open. With your help, the bullying can be stopped so your child feels safe, protected and able to thrive.

Listen Without Judgment to Learn About the Situation With Your Child

The most important first step is to talk to your child. Sit down together in a place where they feel comfortable opening up, without distractions. Let them know you’re there to listen without judgment. Say something like:

“I’m worried about you and want to understand what’s going on. Please tell me the truth about how things are for you at school.”

Listen actively by making eye contact, nodding, and avoiding interruptions. Reflect back on what they share to confirm you understand. Ask open-ended follow-up questions to get the full story. Some examples:

  • “How long has this been happening?”
  • “Who is bullying you, and what do they do?”
  • “How does the bullying make you feel?”

Get details about specific incidents, dates, times, locations, and witnesses. The more information you have, the better equipped you’ll be to take effective action.

Once you have the details, reassure your child. Say something like: “I believe you and will do everything I can to put an end to this.” Give them extra love and support right now, as bullying can be extremely damaging to self-esteem.

You may also want to ask if they’ve told any teachers, counselors, or friends. If not, explore why and how you can support them in reporting the bullying. Explain that reporting is important to make it stop, and that you will advocate for them every step of the way.

By listening without judgment and gathering all the facts, you’ll be in the best position possible to help put an end to your child’s suffering. Stay patient and remember – this is not their fault. With your support, the bullying can and will be stopped.

Let Your Child Know You Will Work Together to Stop the Bullying

Let your child know you fully support them and will work together as a team to put an end to the bullying. Have an open, honest conversation about the situation. Ask them:

  • Who is bullying them? Get specific names if possible.
  • Where and when does the bullying occur? This will help determine the best ways to intervene.
  • What exactly are the bullies doing? Verbal abuse? Physical harm? Cyberbullying?
  • How long has this been going on? The sooner you step in, the better.
  • Why do they think they are being targeted? Their perceived “weakness” says more about the bully than your child.

Reassure your child that the bullying is not their fault. Let them know you will partner with them, their teacher, school administrators, and the parents of the bully to resolve this as quickly as possible. Work together on a plan of action, whether that involves avoiding being alone with the bully, sticking together with a group of friends, or reporting the behavior to the proper authorities.

Your child’s safety and well-being should be the top priority here. Don’t hesitate to call a meeting with school officials and the bully’s parents to discuss the issue. Put everything in writing via email to create a paper trail in case the bullying does not stop. You may need to get local law enforcement involved if you feel physically threatened.

Through it all, continue providing your emotional support and encouragement to your child. Praise them for being brave enough to open up about their situation. Reassure them that this is not a reflection of who they are as a person. Let them know you fully accept them for who they are. With your unconditional love and partnership, they will get through this difficult time.

The most important thing is that your child knows you have their back. By working together, staying vigilant and taking swift action, you can put an end to the bullying and create a safe environment for them to learn and thrive.

Take Steps to Address the Bullying – Talk to School, Speak With Other Parents

Once you’ve spoken with your child and have a sense of the details surrounding the bullying, it’s time to take action. The most important steps are alerting the school and other parents, and coming up with a safety plan.

Talk to School Officials

Meet with your child’s teacher, principal, or school counselor. Explain the situation, provide any evidence of the bullying like texts, photos, or journal entries, and express your desire for intervention. Ask the school what specifically they will do to monitor the situation, prevent further incidents, and ensure your child’s safety. Get specifics on their bullying policy and protocol. Follow up to make sure they are actually taking effective action. If they are not responsive or the steps taken are ineffective, don’t be afraid to be persistent or escalate the issue to the school board.

Speak with Other Parents

If you know the identity of the bully or bullies, consider contacting their parents. Explain what has been happening, provide any evidence, and ask them to speak with their child immediately about stopping this behavior. Let them know you have also alerted the school, and that you expect the bullying to end right away. Having the support of other parents can help apply pressure to find a resolution. However, use your best judgment here, as some parents may react defensively or angrily. If you think meeting with them in person could be confrontational or unsafe, contact them by phone or in writing instead.

Create a Safety Plan

Work with your child on mapping out ways to avoid, ignore, and get away from the bully during school. Have set check-in times, and tell your child to report to you immediately if there are any further incidents of bullying. You may also want to spend extra time with your child before and after school for moral support. Reassure them that the bullying is not their fault and that you are there to help put an end to it together. With time and intervention, bullying can be overcome.

The most important thing is taking prompt action and working as a team with the school and other families to resolve the situation, while also providing your child emotional support. No child deserves to feel afraid or threatened, so be their advocate and see it through until the bullying stops.

Create a Safe, Supportive Home Environment for Your Child to Open Up

To help your child open up about bullying, create a safe and supportive environment at home.

Listen without judgment

Sit down with your child and listen without interrupting or judgment. Say something like, “I’ve noticed you seem upset lately. I’m here if you want to talk about it.” Let them share in their own time. React with empathy, not anger. Ask open-ended questions to make sure you understand the full situation.

Check-in regularly

Make time each day to connect with your child. Even quick chats can help build trust and comfort. Look for signs of bullying like unexplained injuries, lost or destroyed belongings, or avoidance of school or activities. Gently and privately ask about their wellbeing and relationships. Your child may not open up right away, so patiently and consistently offering your support is key.

Set clear rules against bullying

Establish a zero-tolerance policy against bullying in your home. Explain that no one deserves to feel afraid or unhappy because of how others treat them. Set clear rules for respectful communication and behavior. Practice what you preach by modeling empathy and kindness in your own words and actions.

Spend quality time together

Engage in shared interests and hobbies together like cooking a meal, exercising, gaming or volunteering. Quality time strengthens your connection and gives your child opportunities to open up in a low-pressure way. Make eye contact, give your full attention, and be genuinely interested in learning more about their life.

Reassure your child they are not alone

Comfort your child by reminding them you are there to support them. Say things like, “We will get through this together.” Talk about times you felt alone or afraid as a child and the coping strategies you learned. Let your child know that the hurt and humiliation of bullying lessens over time, though the memory may remain. With caring support, their confidence and happiness will return.

Conclusion

So there you have it, some solid advice to help your child deal with bullying. The most important thing is to create an open environment where your child feels comfortable coming to you. Listen without judgment and be their advocate. Work with the school to put an end to the bullying, but also help build your child’s confidence from home. Bullies thrive on fear and weakness, so make sure to remind your child of their strengths, talents, and the support system they have. No child deserves to feel afraid or alone at school. With your love and support, you can get through this difficult time together. Stay strong, stand up for your child, and don’t stop until the bullying comes to an end.

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.