Just because I have 2 teenage daughters, doesn't mean I'm an expert on the subject. In fact, far from it. But, I deal with teenagers every day of the school year. I teach middle school health. We touch on some very difficult subjects for some of these kids to deal with. I don't always know what their background is, so I try to be sensitive to their needs as we discuss these delicate issues.
What bothers me sometimes is how callus they seem to each others feelings. It's easy for them to laugh and make fun of things they feel uncomfortable to talk about. But they may not realize someone else really is dealing with that issue in real life and doesn't think it's so funny. Many don't have the ability to empathize someone else's feelings.
But sometimes, they surprise me. A student that may have always come across as self assured and in control of everything can put themselves in someone else's shoes and become compassionate when you would least expect it. I guess my advice is just to be open to teenagers so that they know when they are ready to talk, they can come to you. Don't be quick to judge. Listen to their concerns without saying anything. Sometimes you can help them come to the right decision about the issue just by asking them questions and allowing them to sort it out themselves.
Kids nowadays aren't afraid to ask you anything...of course I teach health, so the questions I get might be a little tougher than you might have to deal with. I don't always have the answers and I let them know that. Some problems aren't cut and dry. They may have to do a little soul searching and find out what is really important to them.
Ooma equals Free Phone
14 years ago
