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Being a teen can be awkward enough for many reasons, some we can remember and relate to, some we've chosen to forget. If your the parent of a teen however, I'm sure your all to familiar with their daily strife. Add to that being 14, you've just relocated hundreds of miles away from what you used to call home and now your the "new teen" in school just trying to get someone, anyone, to start a conversation with you.
For the first time he's trying to fit in and not be the kid that sticks out like a sore thumb. For the first time its not only uncomfortable, but now he's questioning himself. Is there something wrong with me? Am I so different? Why do they look at me like I'm crazy when I try to take part in their conversation?
As a parent I am again going through this learning experience with him. As we all know there is no parenting guide, though by now you'd think they'd hand them out at the hospital when you leave with that new bundle of joy, so we're all learing as we go.
What I'm learning right now is if I give him one more "pep" talk about it taking time and what a great kid he is he might just explode. I'm learning to navigate from the side lines and dying inside because I can't make this easier. On the other hand I get to watch him learn a life lesson about humanity and reaching out to people. He now values the simple things like a smile given by a classmate and will never again take for granted the value of having friends.
Maybe we should all take a moment to reflect and then perhaps share with our children how the simplest of gestures can make such a big difference.
Tina Starr
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AS really had time in the life of any teen and especially a silent type. If they don;t get caught up in the "in" environment it is rough on them today. Discipline is no where at school or out. Respect a word no longer even heard of. Yes, a truly hard age as I have witnessed as a teacher and youth minister. Persistence and consistency and understanding the tools for success.
» left by Tina Starr(24) (98 days 8 hours ago.)
I want to thank you so much for your comment. Please know that this article is not about being part of the "in crowd". This article was to remind everyone that we all need the simple act of kindness from other human beings. That something as simple as "hello" can go a very long way.
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