Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Talking to Teens
As we navigate the teenage years with our children, we are often faced with numerous challenges, one of which is ensuring their health and wellbeing is a priority. It's no secret that these formative years come with their fair share of complexities, especially when it comes to communication. In today's digital age, teens are constantly bombarded with information and misinformation through the internet and social media platforms. But fear not, engaging in open and confident conversations with your child can help pave the way for their journey towards a healthy and happy adulthood.
1. Normalising Personal Hygiene
While personal hygiene is crucial, making a big deal out of it can inadvertently make your teenager feel anxious. The key is normalising it, helping them understand that there is nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to having a normal, healthy, functioning body.
2. Addressing Acne
Acne can be a significant source of stress for teenagers, affecting their mood, self-esteem, and interpersonal relationships. Empower your teen to have a say in how it's dealt with, and reassure them that you have their back. For other skin care needs like shaving, cleansing, and sunscreen, involve them in the process and talk openly about skin care at home.
3. Navigating Health Information
In this digital age, young people are exposed to an alarming amount of inaccurate information about health, nutrition, wellness, and physical activity. More crucial than just talking to your teen about healthy eating is modelling it for them with a balanced attitude toward eating and exercise. This can have a profoundly positive impact on their wellbeing. Be mindful of your language and avoid words that trigger guilt or shame around eating or weight.
4. Promoting Healthy Eating
If you're concerned that your teen isn't eating enough nutritious food, start by eliminating unhealthy options from your home. Talk to them about how eating well can improve sleep, mental health, and overall mood. Make mental health a regular topic of conversation, checking in with your teenager about school, friends, and their general emotional wellbeing. Find out how your teen prefers to communicate, for example chatting in the car can often be effective as they don't have to make eye contact. Use open questions to encourage them to express themselves.
5. Seeking Support for Mental Health
If you suspect your teenager might be struggling with mental health issues, work together with them to find appropriate support, this can be internally at the College or externally. Let your child know that you're there for them in whatever capacity they need. Sit down with them to do research or ask if there is someone else they would like to talk to. Remember, it's perfectly normal for your teen to turn to someone else for support as they transition from childhood to adulthood.
6. Managing Screen Time
One of the most challenging issues for parents/carers and teenagers today is setting appropriate screen-time limits. Research suggests that over 85 percent of teens exceed the recommended two-hour daily screen-time limit. It's important to recognise that phones are now a vital part of how teens socialise. Understand what your teen values about their screen time and why they use it. When setting limits, explain your reasons and, even better, reflect on your own screen-time habits.
7. Discussing World Problems
Discussing war and conflict with children is indeed a necessary and important task in today's interconnected world. In today's digital age, children can easily come across distressing images and videos related to war and conflict online. Parents/carers can be proactive in addressing these images and providing context and understanding. Please see the link for more information:
https://sje.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-discussing-war-conflict
As parents/carers, your support and guidance during these crucial years are invaluable. Fostering open and empathetic communication is the foundation for a healthy relationship with your teenager.
Jarrod O'Brien
Director - Kildare Campus