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Talkative Teens + Ahead App + Blind Boxes | Ep. 142

Talkative Teens + Ahead App + Blind Boxes | Ep. 142

by | Jan 16, 2024 | Podcast, Technology

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Navigating Talkative Teens in Group Settings

Dealing with talkative teens in a group or class setting can be challenging, but understanding the reasons behind their behavior and implementing effective strategies can create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved. In episode 142 of the podcast, we explore the reasons why teens tend to overshare or talk too much and provide practical tips for teachers, group facilitators, and youth workers to redirect and engage these talkative teens.

Why do teens overshare or talk too much?

Understanding the underlying reasons behind talkative behavior is crucial for effective management.

  • ADHD
    Some teens may exhibit talkative behavior due to conditions like ADHD, where impulsivity and hyperactivity play a role.
  • Insecurity
    Talking excessively can be a way for teens to mask insecurities and divert attention from their vulnerabilities.
  • Desire for Attention
    Some teens enjoy being the center of attention, seeking validation and approval from their peers.
  • Peer Encouragement
    Encouragement from peers who prefer not to participate in discussions can also contribute to talkative behavior.
  • Lack of Recognition
    Teens may talk excessively if they feel unheard in other areas of their lives, seeking acknowledgment and understanding.
  • Social Unawareness
    In some cases, teens may simply be unaware of social cues and the impact of their talkative behavior on the group.

Where can it be bad?

Excessive talking in group settings can have negative consequences, such as disruption and annoyance to others. When one person monopolizes the conversation, other voices are missing and students lose a chance to learn from each other. It’s also a lost opportunity for the talkative one to practice essential social skills and self-awareness.

Addressing these issues promptly is essential. After all, you want everyone to feel safe to participate and not overshadowed.

Tips for redirecting talkative teens in a group setting.

Effectively redirecting talkative behavior requires a delicate approach. You want everyone in the group to feel good about participating, while also encouraging more balanced participation.

Here are some tips for how to deal with talkative students:

  • Be Gentle: When addressing talkative teens, focus on redirecting rather than stifling their desire to communicate.
  • Reframe Questions: In class or group settings, reframe questions to encourage other participants to share their thoughts. Give talkative teens the opportunity to pass or share.
  • Do Interactive Activities: Incorporate games or activities that require everyone’s participation, ensuring a more balanced conversation.
  • Set Time Limits: Implement time limits for individual contributions, allowing everyone to have a chance to speak.
  • Encourage Others: Politely redirect by saying, “Let’s hear from someone else now!” This subtly guides the conversation to include diverse voices.
  • Have a One-on-One Conversation: Speak to the talkative teen privately, seeking their help in engaging others in the class/group.

Advice for Teens

Empower teens to self-reflect and make conscious choices about their communication style.

  1. Relevance: Encourage teens to evaluate the relevance of their contributions to the ongoing discussion.
  2. Conciseness: Teach teens to share stories in a concise manner, respecting others’ time and attention.
  3. Empathy: Help teens understand how their talking may impact others’ ability to share their thoughts and opinions.
  4. Self-Monitoring: If teens wish to reduce talkativeness, suggest counting the number of times they speak in a class or group and gradually decreasing it.
  5. Use of Tools: Introduce tools like fidget or stress balls as alternatives for teens who struggle with the urge to talk excessively.
By implementing these strategies and fostering open communication, teachers and youth workers can create an inclusive and engaging environment that benefits everyone in the group.

TLDR for Teens

Talking is not bad, but sometimes our words mean more when we say less. Ask yourself:

  • Is this relevant to this discussion?
  • Have I already told this person this story?
  • Can I tell this story more concisely?
  • Is my talking keeping others from being able to share their thoughts

If this is something you want to work on, count how many times you talk in a class or group. Then cut that number by 2 the next time.

You could also use a fidget or stress ball when you want to talk.

Also in this episode:

  • What is the Ahead App and will it really transform your life?
  • Blind boxes and chase figures – what are they and why are they so popular?

In this episode, we mentioned or used the following resources.

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below.  We would love to hear from you!

About Us

Karlie Duke

Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Tobin Hodges

Tobin Hodges

Program Director

Caleb Hatchett

Caleb Hatchett

Podcast Host

Follow Us

More Resources You Might Like

Lapse + Meta Lawsuit + Teacher Burnout + Advent
Ep. 119 Diverse Families- Multi-Cultural/Multiracial Families
Episode 27 ; Meditation & Messaging Apps

Kids Fighting at School + Twitch Update + Connection | Ep. 141

Kids Fighting at School + Twitch Update + Connection | Ep. 141

by | Jan 9, 2024 | Parenting, Podcast, School, Social Media

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What’s with kids fighting at school and how can we help?

Fighting at school causes problems for students, teachers, and the parents of those involved. It’s easy to write some kids off as “trouble,” but in our experience, the right adult intervention can make a huge difference.

Recent statistics from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted in 2021 shed light on a startling reality: approximately 18.3% of teenagers have been involved in physical altercations, with boys comprising a higher percentage at 23.3%. Even more troubling, 5.8% of these fights took place on school premises, reflecting a tangible threat to the safety and security of educational settings.

Keep reading for more on how schools are handling the problem of fighting and how you can help.

What are the consequences of fighting at school?

The consequences stemming from school fights are severe and far-reaching. Suspension, physical injury, and, in extreme cases, legal repercussions like arrests and felony charges can alter the trajectory of a young person’s life irreversibly. A poignant example is the recent incident in Florida where 11 high school students were arrested for engaging in a violent altercation during school hours, resulting in three students facing felony charges.

What are schools doing about it?

School administrations have implemented various measures aimed at enhancing safety, including the presence of security personnel, surveillance cameras, metal detectors, and zero-tolerance policies. However, the root causes of this issue often extend beyond the school gates.

Why do kids fight?

Underlying factors contributing to school violence are multifaceted. They range from turbulent home environments to feelings of powerlessness in other aspects of life. Difficulty in managing anger and the need for self-defense against bullying also play significant roles in instigating conflicts.

Addressing this complex issue necessitates proactive engagement from adults, especially when observing signs of potential conflict among teens. Initiating non-judgmental conversations, refraining from labeling, and creating a safe and approachable atmosphere are pivotal. Offering support, such as counseling services, and being receptive to troubled youths seeking help are critical steps in mitigating these issues.

(Read more about how Support Groups can make a difference.)

What can caring adults do to help?

For adolescents grappling with anger or engaging in conflicts, alternative strategies exist. Encouraging productive outlets like boxing or providing opportunities for cooling off before confrontation can significantly redirect energies. Seeking professional help to understand the underlying causes of anger is a pivotal step toward resolution.

As adults within the community, it’s essential to foster an environment where communication is encouraged and support is readily available for teens experiencing difficulties. By promoting understanding, intervening early, and offering constructive alternatives, we can collectively steer our youth away from the detrimental repercussions of school violence.

Let’s work together to create safer educational environments and guide our youth toward more constructive means of conflict resolution.

(Learn more about volunteer training to lead Support Groups in middle schools and high schools.)

If you know a teen who is fighting, start a conversation!

  • Ask questions.
  • Don’t assume or label them.
  • Try a reward! Offer their favorite treat or a special privilege for each week they choose not to fight.
  • Believe the best.
  • Be a safe place for students to report potential fights to you.
  • Offer help and counseling services.
  • Encourage them to take up a physical activity like boxing where they can focus their energy.

Sometimes teens and adults have a hard time understanding each other.

Here are a few tips for teens and adults that are sure to improve your communication skills over time.

Adults ask:

How can I connect with teens and get them to open up to me?

  • Be available
  • Be yourself
  • Connect during the good times so you have that background during hard conversations. Look for ways to just have fun with no agenda!

Teens ask:

How can I get the adults in my life to care and not lecture?

  • Be intentional about when you talk to them- especially when you bring up tough topics. A lot of time, their emotional state or reaction isn’t about you! It’s about other things that you might not be aware of.
  • If needed, ask someone to mediate a conversation between you and the adult that you feel frustrated with

Also in this episode:

In this episode, we mentioned or used the following resources.

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below.  We would love to hear from you!

About Us

Karlie Duke

Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Tobin Hodges

Tobin Hodges

Program Director

Caleb Hatchett

Caleb Hatchett

Podcast Host

More Resources You Might Like

Helping Teens Struggling in School
The CDC recommends that schools take action to educate teens on improving their mental health. Support Groups are a great solution!
Episode 123: School Partnerships & Fantasy Football

Follow Us

Seasonal Depression + Teens on Mission | Ep. 140

Seasonal Depression + Teens on Mission | Ep. 140

by | Jan 2, 2024 | Mental Health, Podcast

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Teens with a purpose, seasonal depression and the best of 2023.

The fall and winter seasons bring more than just chilly weather and cozy holidays. For some, these months usher in a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), triggered by reduced daylight. Recognizing the signs is crucial: shifts in mood, energy levels, eating habits, and concentration are all indicative of SAD. But there are ways to combat it.

Maximizing exposure to daylight through walks or special bulbs helps, as does talking about your feelings with friends, family, or a therapist. If you are experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression, you are not alone! Listen for more ways to manage symptoms and get help when you need it.

Amidst these seasonal shifts, finding purpose can be a beacon of light. Encouraging teens to define their missions, whether tackling societal issues or personal growth, becomes vital for mental health. Aligning time and energy with these missions, even if intimidating, fosters resilience. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.

Parents, educators, and mentors can guide this journey by asking teens about their aspirations and supporting them in crafting their missions. After all, it’s never too early to have a mission!

Teens on mission are teens with a purpose

As we dive into the new year, there’s a buzz about resolutions, goals, and plans. But amidst all this, there’s something even more vital to grasp: our ‘why’. And for teens, this ‘why’ often revolves around finding a purpose, a mission that fuels their days with passion and meaning.

So, how do we guide teens in uncovering their purpose? Or better yet, how can we infuse purpose into our families and classrooms?

Let’s start by painting a canvas of possibilities and inviting teens into a story.

It’s about asking those pivotal questions. What issue do they want to tackle? Homelessness, loneliness, insecurity, or maybe unpreparedness? These inquiries open doors to missions—temporary quests that drive change and impact lives.

Missions aren’t etched in stone.

They’re adaptable, and that’s the beauty of it. Having a purpose, however, is the cornerstone of mental health—a compass that guides actions and decisions.

For teens and adults alike, aligning time and energy with your mission or purpose is a golden rule. If it’s a tad scary, well, that’s often a sign that you’re on the right track. The destination is important, but the real magic lies in the journey—the effort and the strides taken toward that goal.

So, what does having a purpose look like for teens?

It’s a kaleidoscope of possibilities. Some examples could be:

  • Love god, love others
  • Learn and have fun
  • Prepare for the future (college, job)
  • Become a better writer
  • Pass the AP test

It’s amazing when teens zero in on the purpose they want to pursue long-term in their lives, but for most, it’s less intimidating to set a short-term goal.

But living on purpose demands strategy.

Ask yourself—what’s needed to accomplish this mission? Sometimes, it means letting go of things that don’t align with the mission’s trajectory. It’s about priorities and focus.

You’re never too young to have a mission. You’re the architect of your future, and a mission is like the blueprint. Want a fun exercise? Picture your life in 5 or 10 years. Where do you see yourself amidst life’s ups and downs?

Helping teens find their purpose is about empowering teens to dream, discover, and conquer. It’s about nurturing a generation driven by intent and passion.

So, parents, educators, mentors—let’s be the guiding stars. Engage in conversations about aspirations, nudging teens toward their missions. It’s a journey, an exploration of self-discovery.

And teens, if you’re feeling a tad lost or uncertain, that’s alright. The path to finding your mission isn’t always straightforward. It’s about trying on different hats, exploring varied interests, and figuring out what truly resonates.

As we embark on this mission-driven journey, remember—it’s not just about reaching the finish line. It’s about the grit, the determination, the stories woven along the way. It’s about waking up each day with a fire in your belly, fueled by purpose.

Let’s champion teens with a purpose. Let’s paint a world where passion meets action, where dreams aren’t just dreams but blueprints for change.

In this episode, we mentioned or used the following resources about seasonal depression and teens on mission.

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below.  We would love to hear from you!

About Us

Karlie Duke

Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Tobin Hodges

Tobin Hodges

Program Director

Caleb Hatchett

Caleb Hatchett

Podcast Host

Follow Us

More Resources You Might Like

Top Tips for Talking with Teens about Suicide and Depression
Title Image: Depression & Lemon8
Happy multi-ethnic family at the beach smiling at the camera

Heather & Jade Talk Teen Pregnancy

Heather & Jade Talk Teen Pregnancy

by | Dec 26, 2023 | Mental Health, Parenting, Podcast, Support Groups

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Two stories of teen pregnancy converge

In this re-edited interview from 2016, Chris and Karlie are joined by Heather and Jade to talk about their stories both separately and as they intertwine.

As a young teen mom, Jade was connected with Heather, who offered her much-needed support and encouragement. Heather was able to provide hope and a new perspective through the lens of her own teen pregnancy.

Even 7 years after this interview, it remained one of our top-played episodes.

You won’t want to miss this timeless wisdom on the joys and challenges of teen parenthood.

In this episode, you’ll find out…

  • Two different stories about teen pregnancy and parenthood.
  • Ways to support and encourage teen parents.
  • What it is like to be a teen parent while trying to finish school.
  • The importance of mentors and friends in the life of a teen parent.

Ask yourself…

  • Have I sat down and asked someone else’s story lately?
  • How can I better support and encourage a teen parent?
  • Who has made a difference in my own life?

Go ask a teen…

  • Who has supported you the most?
  • What is the biggest joy of being a parent?
  • How can I help support and encourage you?
Advice for teen parents:
  • Get counseling or therapy if you need it.
  • Stay in school!
  • You can do it! There is support out there for you.
  • Your best is good enough.

For people supporting teen parents:
  • Offer to help, and keep offering even when they say no!
  • Be inclusive when you can. It is hard for teen moms to find where they fit and belong.
  • Show up!
  • Let them vent without telling them what to do.
  • Be vulnerable and let them know that you genuinely care about them.

Heather and Jade at our podcast recording to talk about teen pregnancy

Resources for teenage parents:

  • If you or someone you know is dealing with an unexpected pregnancy, Pregnancy Help 4 U can help.
  • If you are someone who works with student-aged parents, reach out to program@teenlife.ngo for more information about our Support Group Curriculum designed for teen parents!
  • Original music by Luke Cabrera and Tobin Hodges.

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below.  We would love to hear from you!

About Us

Karlie Duke
Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Chris Robey
Chris Robey

Former CEO

Heather Gradke

Heather Gradke

Special Guest

Jade Rains

Jade Rains

Special Guest

More Resources You Might Like

Teen Pregnancy with Charlotte Smiley
Dating Relationships & Streaming Services
Episode 26: Dating & Suicide Terms

Follow Us

2023 Teen Life Christmas Party | Ep. 138

2023 Teen Life Christmas Party | Ep. 138

by | Dec 19, 2023 | Holidays, Podcast

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Join us for a jolly good time talking about Christmas traditions, gifts, and Santa for teens.

Chris is back for a special Christmas episode where the gang tells about their own Christmas traditions, how they manage gifts and expectations, and more.

Be sure to listen for Christmas activities teens will enjoy, too!

Parenting Tip

Pick one or two non-negotiable activities. Then make the rest optional or ask your teens. Don’t expect them to do everything!

In this episode, we mentioned the following Christmas movies.

Have a question?

If you have a question about something you heard or just want to give us some feedback, please leave us a comment below.  We would love to hear from you!

About Us

Karlie Duke
Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Tobin Hodges
Tobin Hodges

Program Director

Caleb Hatchett

Caleb Hatchett

Podcast Host

Chris Robey
Chris Robey

Former CEO

Follow Us

More Resources You Might Like

2023 Teen Christmas Gift Guide
Christmas Activities & New Movies
Episode 36: Christmas Traditions