Lesson Category: Teens

Studies show that youth who feel they can talk with their parents are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as promiscuity, using substances, violence, etc. Talking isn’t lecturing.

Students, parents, and educators are facing dramatically increased academic loss and a widening of the achievement gap. How can we address the loss and build understanding? Evidence suggest that we start with building empathy. Compassion will help us embrace the academic challenge as a community. In this class we will look at the effects of school absences due to health, behavior, and current events. We will also introduce and review effective strategies to build a strong academic foundation.

Gifted students are more likely to hold a “fixed mindset,” which may hold them back from trying new things or reaching their full potential. They may believe they should only do things at which they are excellent. The way families and educators give feedback can reinforce a frame of mind that supports those limiting beliefs or the confidence to try new experiences. Learn about language you can use to support courage and independence in your gifted student. You will also gain skills in coaching your child back to confidence after a failure.  

Does your child have trouble connecting with other? 

Are you unsure about how to help? 

Self-awareness and self-acceptance are the foundation of your child’s social life. Parent often struggle to strengthen those capacities in children.

This presentation will address the use and over-use of technology used for homework, leisure, socializing and the challenges it presents to families. Learn practical strategies parents and children can use to truly embrace this new digital frontier without fear and within reason.

Screen time is a red-hot issue between parents and children. Parents complain they can’t get screen time under control and kids can’t seem to get enough. Over half of parents say their kids are “addicted” and, even among young children, craving for screen time is rapidly accelerating. 

Class participants will learn practical solutions to this growing challenge.  

As children enter adolescence, they have a natural desire for independence. Teenagers’ desire for freedom can be scary for parents/caregivers, however, it is what gradually turns your adolescent into a healthy adult.  

Teenagers are wired to push boundaries, but you don’t have to live in constant conflict. Learn how to set firm but fair expectations while keeping communication open so your teen actually listens.

Teens may seem like they don’t want to talk, but they still need your guidance. When teens feel like they can talk to their parents they are less likely to take risks with sex, drugs, and violence. Knowing how to have meaningful, judgment-free conversations can keep them safe and help them make better choices. This class will help you navigate tricky topics like peer pressure, social media, and risky behaviors.

Parents often think that if you figure out what punishment will make your child miserable enough, they will then cooperate. You may be surprised to learn that research has shown that this is a myth. You can sometimes scare or threaten your child into following directions but you will not get improved behavior in the long run. This class will help you recognize the difference between discipline and punishment. You will also gain 5 practical strategies to teach discipline to your tween or teen.