Build self-esteem in your children… •Kids who feel good about themselves are much less likely than other kids to turn to illegal substances to get high and/or to engage in risky behaviors. •As parents, we can do many things to enhance our children’s self-image. Here are some pointers: –Offer lots of praise for any job […]
Discuss definitions of sexual behaviors, puberty, physical changes, oral sex. •Help your child to be responsible so they can make a decision. •Help them understand what their feelings about sex are. •Are they ready for sex and how do they know what that means or feels like? •Help them make up their own mind about […]
Encourage choice •Allow your child plenty of opportunity to become a confident decision-maker. An 8-year-old is capable of deciding if she wants to invite lots of friends to her birthday party or just a close pal or two. A 12-year-old can choose whether she wants to go out for chorus or join the school band. […]
Experimentation is a often a part of a middle schooler’s life in today’s society. Let’s take a look at 2007 drug and alcohol statistics from Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties: –Children start drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes earlier than they use other substances. –Some students report use as early as the fifth grade (1.6% […]
Teenagers face a host of pressures, from the changes of puberty to questions about who they are and where they fit in. The natural transition from child to adult can also bring parental conflict as teens start to assert their independence. With all this drama, it isn’t always easy to differentiate between depression and normal […]
Parents – you can have an impact on how your teenager deals with life. Remember that you are the models for them. Try not to get caught up in the fast pace. You can help them with: #10–Model a Healthy Lifestyle: You can help by setting an example of a healthy, reduced stress lifestyle. Learn […]
