Today's Tip for Families

08-07-2022

Steer Your Teen Toward Safe, Healthy Friendships

Many parents worry about negative peer pressure. And rightly so. Teens often have a strong need to fit in. That can lead some to engage in risky behavior because "everyone else is doing it."

Yet for other teens, this never becomes a big issue. They are able to stand up to the group. Or they carefully choose friends who simply don't get into trouble.

What about your teen? A great deal will depend on you. Here are some ways to help your teen resist negative peer pressure:

• Get to know your teen's friends. Meet their parents if possible, too.
• Make your values and expectations clear. Teens who know they are expected to meet high standards usually meet them.
• Encourage participation in positive groups. You can't fully control who your teen hangs out with, and it's probably not wise to try. But you can encourage involvement in school clubs, youth groups, community groups or volunteer groups with positive values.

Brought to you by:

Webster County Schools

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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