5 things my teen says parents need to know about school life
A new school year brings various emotions to the surface for children and parents alike. My family is no different. Weeks before school begins, conversations always arise around our concerns, fears, hopes and everything in between.
While brainstorming a back-to-school article topic, I decided to get my daughters involved. I thought it would be interesting to have a different take on the subject. I asked them what they'd say to parents about school life at their grade levels.
My youngest didn't have much input (nor interest) at the time. My oldest, however, had quite a bit to share from her perspective. Keep in mind, she is 15 and sharing from what she has seen, heard and experienced among her peers.
Here are the 5 things she said every parent needs to now about school life
1. In my age group, it seems like everyone is trying to be the same and fit in. If your teen wants to stand out, let them. Everyone won't like their choice to be different and may dislike them just because of it. You can still encourage your child by reminding them that liking themselves is the most important thing.
2. Don't make teens (or any child) feel like their worth is dependent on grades. A lot of kids feel that way and end up putting grades before their happiness and health. Sometimes they'll even freak out in class by crying or saying they're scared to face their parents because of imperfect grades like a ''B.'' Good grades are important but they're not the only thing that matters. So many kids end up only wanting parents' approval instead of going after what they really want in life.
3. Let your kids know they are fully loved and supported by taking interest in their interests. Just don't be a helicopter parent! Let them express themselves and like different things instead of trying to change them because you don't understand it. If you don't want your child to wear, watch, or do something, find common ground by explaining WHY you don't like it. If you talk instead of fussing, you can find a way to compromise so that both of you are happy.
4. Talk to your child about the importance of having self-confidence. Some kids like to hurt others who have more social acceptance than they do. We all have to learn that our own beauty and uniqueness is enough and someone else's doesn't take anything away from us as individuals.
5. Kids copy what parents do. If your family ridicules and insults people excessively in your home, they then do the same thing at school. If another kid is different and your child doesn't agree or like it, tell them that insults and other negativity aren't necessary. They can just ignore whatever they don't like and move on.
I only asked my daughter for five points so I stopped her here. However, it was clear she had a lot more to say. As a parent, this is always exciting because it means even more conversation. We talk a lot and that means the world to me!
