Working in public, and many times in the schools. Watching these teens (Freshman to Senior) it is amazing the different cultures and stereotypes placed on these kids. It is no wonder that kids emotionally and stressfully eat. This is their coping mechanism. Kids talk, and they speak out of the mouths of babes. Yes. They know right from wrong. They know that they shouldn't speak on their home life, but they do.....
These young teens deep down hurt. Boys and girls are going thru natural hormones. Some before others. In the end, and when the day is complete? Over 3/4 of the students in your community are deeply hurting. Are you, parents, really observant to your child or children?
I, as well as many other parents, are caught up in life. We have work, home, kids, and then a recap of the day before bed. We do not receive many hours of sleep. Constantly tired. Just trying to make it through each day. But! We have a responsibility to these kids we chose to have. That means time to say, how was your day. How are things going in school? Haven't see _________. What are they up to lately. How come I haven't seen them. They use to come around all the time.
These few questions opens the door to conversation and stimulation to the child. Giving your child the ability to vocalize frustration, and know in that comfort of conversation, they can trust home. Trust that mom and dad are there to listen. Never try to tell them what to do. Offer analogies, and keep it vague. When they don't understand, explain. But! Keep it to their level. One thing young teens do not like? Long hours of explanation or "what happened to you." That is the last thing they want to hear.
The personal relationship with your kids is vitally important. Don't foget, you can appear to have a great home life. In the end, did you really know your child? Good kids can turn bad. Good kids can have emotional disorders that you just don't want to see. Open your eyes. If your kid is using food to absorb themselves, there is an issue. If your kid is wearing long sleeve shirts in the heat of Summer. Check them over. Something can be hiding under those long sleeves. Going out and spending many nights out with a certain friend, and they have acknowledgement of liking alcohol. You need to take caution.
Bottom line, talk to your kids every day. There is no perfect parent program. If there were our children would all be the same. How would that favor our society. It would set for a bleak life. Give your child a chance.
Michelle Ralls
Nutrition Consultant
Email: mls4172@gmail.com
