By Parents For Parents

Socially Incompetent Kids at Risk for Depression Later in Life

2008-07-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

Scientists at the University of Vermont found a link between social problems in childhood and depression in later life. However, they are unsure if social problems cause depression or vice versa.

Professor Keith Burt led the study using data from Project Competence, in which a group of more than 200 people submitted information over a 20-year period beginning when they were between 8 and 12 years old.

Dr. Burt found that people who were not socially competent as children and teenagers were at greater risk for anxiety and depression, even when he considered other explanations such as social class and intelligence.

Dr. Burt said the study indicates that "youth at risk for depression might benefit from interventions focused on building healthy relationships with peers."

In D.C. with the Kids

2008-07-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

Many family vacations include a stop or extended stay in Washington, D.C. As our nation's capital, it's a favorite summertime destination. The rich history is fun for adults, but can kids enjoy it, too?

"One spot we like is the Rock Creek Park Nature Center (at the North end on the D.C. map) located just off Military Road, NW. The park, with hiking trails, creeks and scenic views, has rangers on horseback, which delight kids. The Nature Center has a separate Discovery Room, with an array of items for youngsters to handle, a planetarium, and even stables nearby for horseback riders."

If you have kids of varying ages, consider sending one adult with each child to age-appropriate attractions. There's also a huge underground cafeteria between the East and West wings of the National Gallery - a great place to cool off and grab some ice cream. Source: Fodor's

College Prep

2008-07-10T08:06:00.000-07:00

The transition from high school to college can be hard. As your teen prepares to make this shift, there are some things you can do to help.

"Be excited for them. If you are struggling to let them go, then it is OK to tell them that, but do not put pressure on them to worry about you. They are likely feeling overwhelmed by it all or are so excited that they don't want to be bothered by your struggle."

Take time to listen. Give your teenager the chance to express himself, to talk about his fears, concerns, and hopes about this new phase of his life. Don't smother your teen, but be available to spend time with him and reassure him that you're there for him. Source: Clarion Ledger

Learn more about college prep boarding schools at BoardingSchoolsInfo.com.

Cell Phones Disrupt Teens' Sleep

2008-07-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

A study by European researchers has found that excessive cell phone use can inhibit a teen's ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. The study reviewed cell phone usage and sleep patterns of 21 healthy teens, ages 14 to 20.

"Results showed that compared with light cell phone users, teens who were heavy users had a harder time getting up in the morning... woke up more often during the night, spent more time tossing and turning before falling asleep..."

Researchers were surprised to find no difference in mental states, depression, and anxiety between heavy and light cell phone users. Still, the study's results highlight the importance of structured and reasonable cell phone usage. Source: CBS News

Learn more: The Latest Teen Obsession: Is Your Child a Cell Phone Junkie?

Laws Against Teens Using Cell Phones While They are Driving Do Not Work

2008-07-08T16:57:00.000-07:00

Passing laws that make it illegal for teenagers to drive while talking on cell phones do little good, according to a new study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The reasons are that teens ignore the laws and police do not enforce them. Police officers told researchers that it is impossible for them to tell which drivers are teens or if they are using hands-free devices, which are legal in some states.

Researchers watched teenagers driving out of high schools in North and South Carolina before and after such laws passed. About 12% of the students drove while talking on their phones, no matter what the law was.

Seventeen states and the District of Columbia have passed laws restricting teen cell phone use while driving.

Barbara Harsha, director of the Governors Highway Safety Association, said "the laws send a message to parents more than anything else."

Is Your Child a Cell Phone Junkie? Find out now!

Gen Y Turns to Peers, Not Parents, for Guidance and Emotional Support

2008-07-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

A study of British teenagers found that this generation is becoming more independent of their parents and more likely to be influenced by their peers, turning to members of their own age group for guidance and emotional support. This puts the youth at higher risk for drinking, smoking, and using drugs.

Researchers from the World Health Organization who surveyed 200,000 children at ages 11, 13, and 15 years old in 41 countries found that British teens ranked third for alcohol consumption. Forty percent of British 15-year-olds reported drinking at least once a week. The more time they spent with friends in the evening, the more likely the teens were to abuse alcohol and other substances.

"There is something very interesting going on about where young people are getting their support," said Candace Currie, lead author and director of the Children's and Adolescent Health Research Unit at the University of Edinburgh. "It's shifting from the home and parents to their school and peers."

Parental Insomnia Linked to Teen Suicide Ideation

2008-07-06T17:00:00.000-07:00

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh Medical School have found a link between chronic insomnia in parents with and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in their teenage children. Only 1.7% of teens whose parents do not have sleep disturbances attempt suicide, compared to 9.5% of teens whose parents have chronic insomnia.

Chronic insomnia is defined as ongoing sleep disturbances such as trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, as well as waking up too early. People with depression and bipolar disorder often suffer from chronic insomnia - and this recent study indicates that if parents have this condition, the risk of suicidal thoughts in their teenaged children is tripled.

Dr. Xianchen Liu, a professor of psychiatry at University of Pittsburgh, presented the study at a meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies.

Oral Piercings Lead to Gum Disease and Tooth Loss

2008-07-05T17:03:00.000-07:00

Piercings of the in and around the mouth can lead to tooth loss, broken teeth, and gum disease, according to a study published in the American Dental Journal.

Dr. Yehuda Zadik, who co-authored the study with Dr. Tal Becker, warned that a piercing causes "repeated trauma to the gum area and is in many cases a precursor to tooth loss," most often the front teeth. Piercings can also cause periodontal disease.

Zadik and Becker studied teenagers from around the world, and discovered that the percentages of teens with such piercings varied from 20 percent in Israel to 3.4 percent in Finland.

Both dentists advise parents to dissuade teens from getting piercings. However, if the teen is insistent, tell him to have the piercing performed by a person who uses disposable tools. The teen should rinse regularly with a chloroxidine mouthwash for two weeks after the procedure, and should have the piercing professionally cleaned twice a year to remove tartar buildup and calculus formation.

Sudden Parental Death Can Result in Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome

2008-07-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

Only 4% of American and European children will experience the sudden death of a parent. However, that event puts them at a threefold risk for depression and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSS).

Dr. Nadine Melham of the University of Pittsburgh Medical School compared 140 children who had lost a parent to suicide, accident, or sudden natural death to children with two living parents. She found that the children who had lost a parent suddenly were at high risk for depression, and that it did not matter if the death was a suicide. The children fared worse if their caregivers were suffering from depression, PTSS, anxiety, or other psychological disorders.

This study appears in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.

Teen "Pregnancy Pact" Shocks Small Town

2008-07-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

A small high school in Gloucester, Massachusetts, has seventeen pregnant students - four times as many as last year. What's most shocking to many of the town's residents is that some of the girls apparently agreed to have babies as a group and then raise their children together.

There may be even more members of the "pregnancy pact," because administrators at a local clinic are reporting that an unusual number of teens are coming in for pregnancy tests and then expressing disappointed if the results are negative.

Half of the pregnant girls are under age 16, and some of their sexual partners may have been in their 20s, according to the New York Times.

Gloucester is a small town of 30,000. Mayor Caroline Kirk said that the town's economy is bad because of a decline in the fishing industry, and many families are suffering.

"It's the social environment," she said. "These girls think a baby can give them love or status or fill an empty space in their life, and they are very very young."

Later Starts Mean Extra Sleep for High School Students

2008-07-02T16:59:00.000-07:00

When high schools start their school day later students get more sleep, and that's a good thing, according to a new study from Norwalk Hospital Sleep Disorder Center in Connecticut.

Researchers followed 259 students whose starting time changed from 7:35 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Students used the time to sleep an extra half hour in the mornings, but did not change their bedtimes, which averaged around 11 p.m.

Previous studies have shown that increased sleep is linked to better grades and motivation, less emotional disturbance, and even reductions in ADHD symptoms. However, this does not mean that lack of sleep causes those conditions.

Author Mary O'Malley presented this study at the annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies.

Close Sibling Relationships as Kids Lessens Risk for Depression Later

2008-06-30T16:57:00.000-07:00

People who form close relationships with at least one of their siblings during childhood lower their risk for depression as adults, according to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Professor Robert Waldinger, M.D., of Harvard Medical School analyzed results of an ongoing 68-year study of 229 men that began when they were children. Poor relationships with siblings and a family history of depression could predict if a man would experience major depression and use mood-altering drugs after age 50.

On the other hand, those with a close relationship with one sibling were at low risk for depression, even when Dr. Waldinger factored in other explanations, including parental relationships.

Risky Behavior Declines Among Teens

2008-06-28T03:20:00.000-07:00

A report released June 4 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that risky behavior among teenagers is declining. The study found that teens today drink, smoke, and have sex less often than their peers did 16 years ago.

"The 2007 national data were collected from 14,041 students who self-reported their behavior and included only blacks, whites and Hispanics because other populations are too few for a representative sample, the CDC said."

The only "red flag" in the CDC's findings concerned Hispanic teens. Though risky behavior declined among the members of this group, Hispanic teens are still at higher risk than their Caucasian or African-American counterparts. Source: USA Today.

If you're looking for help for your troubled teen, then visit TurnAboutRanch.com. The youth ranch programs for troubled teens offer a rural setting that removes teenagers from their destructive environments.

Hold Your Family Together in Times of Trouble

2008-06-25T03:21:00.000-07:00

Crisis and pain are a part of life, and children are often affected more than we realize. They may not know how to respond to traumatic events, but parents can help them through these difficult times.

"For example, some children may behave as if nothing is wrong. They may not know what to feel or say, particularly if they have mixed feelings about a loss or a person who has died."

Bertie Conrad, a youth counselor, says it's important for parents to let kids know that they're emotions - whatever they are - are OK. There are books and other resources available that can help parents know learn the best ways to talk to their children. Among the most common tips offered to parents is that they should honest with their children about their own emotions. Source: Bellvue Reporter

If your family has experienced a traumatic event, an adolescent treatment center, like Island View in Utah, may help your teenager heal wounds and work towards healthier relationships.

Summer Employment May Not Come Easy

2008-06-23T03:22:00.000-07:00

Summer jobs don't only provide some extra money, but also offer valuable life experience for teenagers. However, teens may have to work harder this year to get a summer job. Experts advise parents of summer job seekers to begin setting their teens' expectations early, and help them to develop a Plan B in case Plan A doesn't work out.

"Discuss the fact that if your teen is fortunate enough to find a job, it may not be what he had hoped for. The job may be part time, inconvenient hours and, yes, may not even pay that great. If your son or daughter hopes to work a little this summer in order to buy a brand new convertible in August, disappointment will surely be the result."

If Plan A - the summer job - doesn't happen; encourage your child to consider Plan B - volunteer work. This might be a difficult sell, but is a great way for teenagers to get some real world experience and learn that life isn't always about "me". Source: The Star - Cleveland County, North Carolina

If you're looking for a summer camp instead of a summer job for your child, visit SummerCampsInfo.com for a complete list of summer camps.

Rules and Boundaries

2008-06-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

A concerned parent recently wrote in to the Wall Street Journal's "Work and Family Mailbox," looking for advice about her teenage children. She's divorced, and her ex-husband allows their kids to use his house when he's out of town, even though they've been caught throwing parties. Because she's not willing to let the kids use her house, her kids say she doesn't trust them, and she isn't sure what to do.

"I'd recommend holding your ground. Your teens are simply behaving like normal adolescents, pushing boundaries and challenging rules, says Pauline Tesler, a San Francisco family-law attorney and co-author of 'Collaborative Divorce.' The limits you've set are appropriate..."

Tesler goes on to say that even the most well-intentioned teen is subject to peer pressure, which should be considered when setting rules and boundaries. She also suggests that the woman and her ex-husband work hard to come to an agreement about rules regarding empty houses and unauthorized parties. Source: The Wall Street Journal

Boarding Schools Info offers comprehensive lists of the best private schools, boarding schools, and independent schools. Find the best school for your teenager at BoardingSchoolsInfo.com.

Good Parenting Changes Everything

2008-06-18T03:18:00.000-07:00

For over 30 years, ParentingPartners has offered parenting education classes in South Carolina. The goal of the classes is to prevent child abuse and neglect, and strengthen families through their many classes and programs.

"Parent Aides are professionally trained home visitors who work one-on-one with families. They teach parents to be more loving and attentive to the needs of their children."

In addition to Parent Aides, ParentingPartners offers classes on nurturing, dealing with divorce, parenting teens and tweens, and more. Source: Wach.com

New Leaf Academy girls boarding schools in North Carolina and Oregon offer a safe, nurturing environment for middle school aged girls to grow into healthy teenagers.

Government Study Says Today's Teens Less Likely to Smoke, Drink, and have Sex

2008-06-15T03:17:00.001-07:00

Fewer of today's high school students are smoking, drinking, and having sex than were their counterparts in the 1990s, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Cigarette usage is down to 11 percent from 26 percent in 1991. Alcohol use declined from 27 percent to 20 percent today. The percentage of sexually active teens changed from 54 percent in 1991 to 48 percent today. Condom use went up to 61 percent from 46 percent in 1991. Today's teens are also more likely to wear seat belts, the study found.

Teens Embracing Frugality

2008-06-13T03:35:00.000-07:00

Though difficult, the current economic downturn has its bright spots. One of them is that teens are learning to live more frugally.

"Facing the likelihood of paying $4 to $5 for a gallon of gas this summer and fewer employment opportunities, teenagers are curbing their propensity to buy $100 jeans and $60 shirts in favor of bargains, with the Associated Press recently reporting that secondhand clothing chains have experienced booming business among teens and their parents looking to buy brand names for less while 'stalwart retailers of teen apparel' have taken a hit."

This is a great time for parents to have conversations with their teens about money and budgeting, helping them see the value in finding great deals and living modestly. Source: Snohomish County Business Journal

Negative Stereotypes Inaccurate and Harmful

2008-06-10T03:25:00.000-07:00

Though there are lots of "doom and gloom" stories about today's teenagers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has statistics that may put trends in adolescent behavior in a better light. According to the CDC, most teens have not had a drink in the past 30 days, few have tried marijuana, and only 50 percent of them have had sex.

"This reality can be leveraged to promote healthy choices through 'social norming'. Social norming operates on the notion that if the general impression is that most kids don't drink alcohol, then those who do drink will drink less, and fewer will start drinking."

Several high schools, middle schools, and colleges have begun using the social norming approach and found it to be very effective in curbing risky behavior. It's a strategy parents can use as well by talking to their teens about what everyone is not doing. Source: San Marcos Daily Record

High School Juniors Stress Out Over AP Classes and College Apps

2008-06-09T03:15:00.000-07:00

American high school students are finding their junior year to be increasingly stressful, according to a new report in the May 24, 2008 edition of the Wall Street Journal.

"It is a marathon year of tests, stress and sleepless nights," reporter Jonathan Kaufman writes. Students feel pressure to participate in as many extracurricular activities as possible to enhance their college resumes. They are taking "advanced placement courses," which are on the college level and require passing a rigorous examination to receive college credit for them. They are visiting college campuses and filling out applications. They are taking after-school courses to prepare themselves for their College Board examinations.

One survey of 2,700 middle- and upper-income students in San Francisco found that juniors felt "often or always" stressed by schoolwork. About 75% had stress-related physical problems such as headaches, insomnia, and exhaustion. Over 25% used energy drinks and over-the-counter caffeine pills to keep going, and 9% admitted to using controlled substances like Ritalin and Adderall.

Parents, teachers, and counselors often try to persuade juniors to take it easy and find time to relax. The pressure does not necessarily come from adults, but from a teen's peer group.

Florida Teacher Lets Class "Vote Out" Potentially Autistic Kindergartener

2008-06-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

By Hugh C. McBride

A parent has filed a complaint with the Morningside (Florida) Elementary School administration and is considering legal action after learning from her 5-year-old son that his teacher had led a vote by his fellow students that resulted in his being banished from the classroom.

Melissa Barton had originally filed a criminal complaint after learning that her son, Alex, had been relegated to the nurse's office on May 21, 2008, by virtue of a 14-2 "election" in his kindergarten class. However, the state attorney's office declined to file charges, noting that it felt the actions taken by the teacher did not meet the standard for child abuse.

On the day in question, Alex - who his mother said is in the process of being diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (a high-functioning form of autism) - had been sent to the principal's office because of bad behavior. When he returned, his teacher, Wendy Portillo, had him stand in front of the class while other students told him what they didn't like about him. They then voted that he not be allowed back in the class.

On May 29, the TC Palm website reported that the teacher had provided police with an alternate version of the events. According to a report the Port St. Lucie Police Department released that day, the teacher claimed that she was attempting to demonstrate to Alex the degree to which his behavior was having a negative effect on those around him. She also told police that the vote was to decide whether Barton should be removed from class for that day only, and was not meant to establish his permanent exile.

"Portillo said she did this as she felt that if (Alex) heard from his classmates how his behavior affected them that it would make a bigger difference to him, rather than just hearing it from adults," the police report stated.

The St. Lucie County School District and Florida's Department of Children and Families are both conducting investigations related to the incident.

Teens More Likely to Die in Car Accidents Late at Night and Without Seatbelts

2008-06-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

More than two-thirds of teen drivers killed in car accidents at night were not wearing seatbelts, according to a study from the National Highway Safety Administration.

Nationally, seatbelt usage is increasing, with 82% of drivers and passengers fastening up.

However, seatbelt usage declines at night by over 20%. Car fatalities tend to occur between midnight and 3 a.m. During those hours, the fatality rate is 20 times higher than it is for daytime driving.

Nationally, about 4,400 teenagers 16 to 19 years old die in car accidents every year.

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Confidentiality Is Essential to Teen Health Care

2008-06-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

Teenagers don't tell their parents everything. No matter how open your relationship is with your child, there will always be topics that are too awkward for them to discuss with you. That's where teenagers can benefit from confidential conversations with a doctor or clinician.

"Giving a professional clinician private time with your child provides your teen a moment to freely express concerns. Maybe your teen will feel more comfortable broaching topics like drugs and alcohol, sexually transmitted diseases, and birth control with a clinician."

Some parents are hesitant to let their kids have confidential time with a doctor or nurse, thinking it will force their kids to talk to them instead. Unfortunately, all that typically does is force a young person to try and figure things out for themselves. Source: The Daily News

A good resource for teens interested in diet and nutrition is WeightLossCentral.org.

Pointers for Parents

2008-06-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Tammy Linn is a business woman, mother, and has been married for 26 years. But as her kids begin to enter their teenage years, she thinks her most challenging years are still ahead of her. So she developed some "common-sense" tips to help get her through.

"Choose your battles. It's pretty safe to say that I disagree with many of the things my teen says and does, but if I confronted him on all the issues that are 'just not for me,' our mother-son relationship would be nonexistent."

Linn goes on to suggest that parents stop trying to figure out what their teen is thinking ("it will drive you crazy"), and that they catch their kids doing something "right" for which they can receive recognition and praise. Source: AZ Central

Stone Mountain School offers help with troubled boys. Learn more about their therapeutic boarding school at StoneMountainSchool.com.