Teens

I wish you more than painted platitudes sold in craft stores. I wish you more than pursed-lips, hands-on-hips selfies. I wish you more than posted-on-social-media happiness. I wish you joy and gratitude. I wish you purpose and grace.

As much as my students see themselves reflected in the main characters, I am reminded I need to be the parent and teacher who is there for them and helps see the valuable lessons in their struggles. 

This episode is also known as the jackpot of parenting. Hear GREAT tips and encouragements from mothers, who have already walked through the middle school years with their kiddos.

With careful consideration, my husband and I worked with the other parents to craft a prom weekend on a budget we set that afforded our kids a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We caved in some areas and drew firm lines in others. But the in the end, we did it our way and have no regrets.

As parents, we want to think our child is immune to these types of thoughts but sometimes the best thing you can do is just let him or her know you are there to talk about it, and that it's okay to ask for help.

Here are some of the top favorites in our house when we need to divert from devices. These are great for both your young adult and adults in the family. 

Let's remember the immense pressure they are under. Let's be their biggest cheerleaders. Let's see their passion and enthusiasm and global awareness and heart for social justice. Let's hold them to a high standard and tell them in every way that we believe in them.