Preparing Teenagers For Back to School

Coffee Break Conversations with Gina Boscarino, Group Specialist at Wedgwood Christian Services

In Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation podcast, Hillary and Gina discuss the rising trends students are facing going back to school. Gina, a Group Specialist within Wedgwood’s Positive Youth Development programs, has impacted the lives of thousands of kids and shares some of her insights from working with teenagers. Together, they explore rising concerns among older students and how to get involved as a parent or teacher.

 

Trends among middle schoolers and high schoolers today.

Middle schoolers and high schoolers today are searching for their identity and a sense of belonging. This is not new, but students face an increased number of choices and overexposure through social media. With the rise of live streaming and real-time posting, social media has become more invasive. Allowing unrestricted online use can be risky when combined with kids whose brains aren’t fully developed and who might not fully think through their decisions.

A key issue is students just want to be heard. Without guidance from an important figure, they often turn to social media as a platform for their thoughts rather than seeking advice from a trusted adult. Gina learned an important lesson from a student at Wedgwood about how her mom helps her when she’s upset by asking three questions: “Are you looking for advice? Do you need someone to help? Do you just need to vent?” These questions empower your child and emphasize the importance of open communication. As a parent or caregiver, even if you are upset about what your child shares, it’s crucial to set aside your own feelings and simply offer support.

Concerns for teachers and students for this upcoming school year.

Substance use, like vaping, is a huge concern. The prevalence of vaping among students is increasing often fueled by peer pressure in schools. A big part of youth development is helping kids to develop the skills to say “no” and prevention. By teaching these skills, kids can learn healthier coping mechanisms and build resilience to better bounce back from life’s challenges. Without emotional regulation or strategies for dealing with disappointments, children are more likely to turn to outlets like vaping and alcohol.

At Wedgwood, we prioritize a trauma-informed approach and aim to help lift burdens teachers face with their students’ mental health and external challenges, like technology and substance use. Through our support for students, Wedgwood inadvertently also supports teachers.

To learn more about our Positive Youth Development programs, please check out our Q&A with Gina.

 

3 THINGS CAREGIVERS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS SHOULD BE MINDFUL OF WHEN PREPARING KIDS TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL.

Check-in.

One of the most important steps is staying informed about potential risks and being educated. Ask your child questions like:

• How are you feeling about going back to school?
• Is there anything that you’re concerned or worried about?

A lot of times we focus on the challenges younger kids face during transitions but overlook the difficulties older students experience as they navigate their own transitions.

 

Be a safe space.

Create a supportive environment where your child knows you’re someone they can openly talk to at the end of the day. For instance, even if they express negative emotions, reassure them your love and support remain constant.

 

Be involved.

Get to know your child’s friends and teachers. Many parents reduce their involvement as their children enter middle school and high school, but staying active and known around the school can be beneficial. By building relationships with teachers and other parents, they are more likely to reach out to you if needed.

For parents and caregivers seeking additional support in navigating their child’s life, visit our Teen CHARGE Parent Support page, part of our Positive Youth Development programs.

 

 

 

Wedgwood is here to help!

At Wedgwood Christian Services, you’ll find a caring and compassionate team of professionals who understand the complexities of mental health and are committed to providing individualized care that meets your unique needs. Wedgwood’s holistic approach offers a comprehensive range of services to help you or your loved one achieve mental health growth & progress.

Wedgwood Christian Services is located on the southeast side of Grand Rapids in West Michigan.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, Wedgwood’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services have immediate openings. You can contact the Bouma Counseling Center at (616) 942-7294 or email counseling@wedgwood.org for more information.

If you would like to learn more about Wedgwood’s Positive Youth Development programs, you can contact Cathy Racalla, Prevention Services Team Lead at (616) 831-5639 or email cracalla@wedgwood.org for more information.

 

Want to learn more about how to best support students during back to school? Check out Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation to see the full episode with Gina on our YouTube Channel or the Wedgwood Podcast – available wherever you get your podcasts.