Friday 5: Kids & Teens
Check out what we’ve been reading to support your child’s mental health:
During the adolescent years, the brain becomes activated in new ways and neurochemicals can make tweens obsessed with their social world. Knowing what’s “normal” can reduce the stress of peer expectations and interactions. Reference this article to help your middle schooler understand their friendship ups and downs. (Mindshift)
Remote school is stressing many parents out. Here’s how to tame the anxiety. (Washington Post)
“Amid all the adversity and oppression we’ve been through, here we are.” Gymnast, Nia Dennis discusses her experience of being Black in a predominately white sport and how she is pushing boundaries around body and cultural acceptance with her talents. Find the article and viral gymnastics routine here. (The Lilly)
Gifted education has been trying to solve its diversity problem for years. The National Association for Gifted Children reaffirmed its commitment in 2020, reviewing access and limitations of current evaluation models used for placement that has unwittingly limited access for minorities. Illinois’s U-46 school district is a bright point, a sign that change can happen. This is how they did it. (The Hechinger Report)
Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for 15- to 24-year-olds, according to the CDC. But suicide can be preventable and that parents and family members play an important role. Here’ what you can do to help provide hope and a safe emotional space for your teen. (mindshift)
