14 Things I Want My Kid to Know Before He Goes to High School

I am only just embarking on the teenage years with my oldest child but as a high school teacher and guidance counselor, I know I am likely in for a wild ride.  I’m hoping it’s more kiddie coaster than not, but only time will tell.

In the meantime, I have made mental notes to myself over the past 20+ years in which I have travelled the halls of a high school.

This is what I want my kids to know so that they can cope and thrive during their teenage years.

#1 – Surround yourself with friends who are positive influences. Friends who work hard, are respectful, help others in class who are struggling, and are kind to others, are positive influences.

#2 – Develop your confidence and keep it. Don’t let anyone cause you to like yourself less.

#3 – Make good choices, even in high pressure situations, and even when it’s hard.  Say no when you know you should.

#4 – Be resilient and bounce back. Tough things will happen but you are strong and can overcome them.

#5 – Take charge of your own self care.  Know what makes you feel healthy and happy, and make time for it.

#6 – Limit social media use.  Life is not inside your phone.  People are often unkind on social media so don’t link how valued you are to a hunk of glass and plastic.

#7 – Get a part-time job, earn money and save money.  You can’t live in my basement for the rest of your life.

#8 – Have a plan for after high school and work towards it. Research opportunities and set goals. 

#9 – You are a teenager with a teenage brain and it doesn’t always work very well for certain things.  You’ll do dumb things because of it.  I did dumb things too.

#10 – When you get your licence, don’t load your friends into my car and drive too fast.  If you do, I won’t let you drive my car anymore.

#11 – Reach out.  If you feel sad, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious or uncomfortable, tell me.  If you don’t feel comfortable telling me, that’s OK, just tell an adult you trust.

#12 – Always choose kindness… in class, in the halls and at lunch.

#13 – Have fun.  Be social. Laugh with your friends.  Enjoy the freedom of being a teenager.

#14 – Oh, and I love you and will be there for you no matter what.

Love, mom.

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