Parent Zone

It’s time for parents to step up if their teens are acting out. Thell Robinson with our prevention partners at Halt Violence advocates for a “trust but verify” parenting strategy, meaning parents should meet their teen’s friends and their parents, check phones for texts and social media accounts, and look in their bedrooms. A parent’s […]

Remember Us Urban Legends founder Miguel “Geno” Tucker understands the potentially devastating impacts of trauma. He often sees parents who have never addressed their own past trauma and unconsciously default to poor parenting practices because that’s what their own parents taught them. 

Unite for Safe Social Media founder Chris Vineis has tips for parents on how to monitor and set rules for how often, how long, and where teens go online. She encourages parents to talk with them about their online experiences. Teens can become unwitting prey for sexual predators or be trapped into sextortion schemes.

All THAT founder Danella Hicks asks a simple question: Do you check your teenager’s backpack and room each night? She encourages parents to mix love and compassion with a dose of rules and expectations. Setting curfews and bedtimes – even for teens – is a start to establishing healthy and safe boundaries.

Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer Abby Fisher reminds us that a meaningful mentor can help a teen soar. Great mentors could be coaches, teachers, pastors, or neighborhood leaders – look for trusted adults your child can respect. We’ve got options for you to consider.

The Center for Healthy Families CEO Toshia Safford reminds us that we can’t protect our daughters from the world, but as parents, we can offer empathy and a safe space for them to talk. Learning to accept and stay calm when teens are upset or anxious can serve parents well.