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

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

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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:

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

Communications Director

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

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Seasonal Depression + Teens on Mission | Ep. 140

Seasonal Depression + Teens on Mission | Ep. 140

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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

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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

Communications Director

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

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2023 Teen Life Christmas Party | Ep. 138

2023 Teen Life Christmas Party | Ep. 138

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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

Communications Director

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

Traveling with Teens + Family Dynamics | Ep. 137

Traveling with Teens + Family Dynamics | Ep. 137

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Tips, Games, and Coping Strategies to Make Traveling with Teens a Breeze

Navigating the winter break presents distinctive challenges, particularly when teenagers are part of the equation. Questions arise, from managing constant adolescent hunger pangs to handling complex family dynamics.

In episode 137 of the Teen Life Podcast, we delve into effortless strategies for traveling with teens. Moreover, we explore what to do (and not to do) in coping with family dynamics. Plus, don’t overlook our savvy fast food tips that won’t strain your wallet.

What Do You Remember About Traveling as a Teenager?

Remember those road trips as a teen? The excitement, the boredom, the endless “are we there yet?” Sound familiar? 

A lot has changed about traveling since then, but the endless complaints and disgusted side glances are eternal. Fear not, we’ve got your back with some strategies and fun games to keep everyone engaged and the trip as smooth as possible.

Travel Tip #1: Double down on snacks

Before hitting the road, ensure your snack game is top-notch. Teens have insatiable appetites, especially on long journeys. Load up on their favorite munchies to keep the hunger pangs at bay. Granola bars, fruit, chips, and even some homemade treats can be a lifesaver when hunger strikes.

Travel Tip #2: Get everyone involved with car games

Here are a few of our favorites!

My Cows

Here’s a quirky game to keep things lively: Spot a group of cows and yell “My Cows” – claim your cows! But beware, passing a graveyard allows someone to retaliate by saying, “I kill your cows,” targeting your herd. Fortunately, passing a church revives your lost cows.

The Alphabet Game

Challenge your teens to find a word that starts with each letter of the alphabet in order. It’s a brain teaser that keeps everyone involved and thinking.

Wavelength

One person is the guesser and everyone else decides on a number between 1 and 10 without showing the guesser. The goal of the game is to get the guesser to understand the number by rating choices in different categories.

For example, the “secret” number is 4 and the guesser chooses the category “cars”, the person he/she calls on gives an example of a car that rates 4. The guesser decides how high on the scale it is and says the number out loud and says “fast food restaurant.” The next person names a fast food restaurant that rates 4. And so forth. When everyone has named one item, the guesser gives a final score. If it’s correct, they win!

Watch here to see it in action on TIkTok.

Name That Tune

A classic! Tune into the radio or a playlist, and have fun guessing the name of the song and the artist. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy some music together.

The Movie Game

Test your movie knowledge by naming films consecutively, starting each new title with the last letter of the previous one. It’s a game that can last the entire trip!

Icebreakers and Would You Rather

Engage your teens with fun icebreakers or intriguing “Would You Rather” questions. It’s a great way to spark conversations and create lasting memories.

Coping Strategies for Teens with Flight Anxiety

Flying can be daunting, especially for teens dealing with flight anxiety. Here are some helpful tips to ease their nerves:

Distractions during Takeoff and Landing

Encourage distractions like magazines, puzzles, or engaging conversations to divert their attention.

Tech-Free Alternatives: While technology is handy, suggest non-tech distractions like puzzles, books, or even drawing materials in case technology fails.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

These can work wonders in blocking out plane noises and creating a more serene atmosphere.

Chew Gum

Chewing gum can alleviate ear discomfort caused by changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing.

Preparation and Communication

Discuss expectations and the flight plan beforehand to ease their worries and uncertainties.

Make the most of travel to make memories.

No matter how you travel, you can make the most of your time together as a way to make memories and create a stronger family bond.

Whether your family is traveling or your extended family is coming to you during the holidays, you are probably dealing with people you don’t see very often.

Here are some ideas to help teens navigate family interactions with people they aren’t as close to:
  • DON’T force them to hug family. They can be polite, but their body, their choice.
  • Go over names ahead of time if they don’t know everyone.
  • Be willing to step in and save the day if they get cornered by a chatty relative.
  • Give them space if they need alone time or want to hang out with cousins instead of being around adults.
  • If extended family is in town for a while, let them invite a friend over or give them an afternoon away where they can go be with friends.
  • Let them plan something so they are excited about it too!

BONUS: Listen to the full episode for our top fast-food hacks of the season.

In this episode, we mentioned or used the following resources about traveling games and family dynamics.

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!

More Resources You Might Like

Taking the Stress out of Holiday Traditions
2023 Teen Christmas Gift Guide
Christmas Activities & New Movies

About Us

Karlie Duke

Karlie Duke

Director of Communications

Tobin Hodges

Tobin Hodges

Program Director

Caleb Hatchett

Caleb Hatchett

Podcast Host

Follow Us