"I can't believe how different I am after camp. I feel more me, more real. I am not scared to see who I am anymore and I know people see me as I truly am. Supercamp let me build a kind of relationship I have never had before, one based on nothing but trust."
Believe it or not, the quotation above came from a junior high schooler.
I include it here not to overtly promote SuperCamp, but to make a point -- teenagers may seem distant and stormy, but they're secretly quite sensitive. Teens crave meaningful connections with you, with teachers, and with peers.
Unfortunately, teens are often stopped by fear. They're figuring out who they are and what their place is in the world. As a result, teens may feel vulnerable and hide their confident, capable selves.
Programs like SuperCamp go a long way toward breaking through fear. But there's plenty you can do as a parent to support your teen at home and in school.
Here are a few suggestions gleaned from 30 years of experience with over 70,000 teens:
- Really listen. Don't try to listen while doing something else. Put your chores aside so your teen knows you are paying attention.
There's no need to lose heart if your teen is struggling or your relationship feels strained. Small actions like the ones listed above help your teen feel valued and appreciated. Remember, your support means the world to your teen!