Teen Life Podcast

How to Support Teens with Learning Differences Learning differences, also known as learning disorders or disabilities, can make academic settings particularly challenging for kids and parents. Understanding these disorders, recognizing their signs, and knowing how to support teenagers with them are crucial steps toward ensuring their success in school and in life.  Also in this e

How can adults connect with teens during their senior year when everyone has senioritis? Senioritis is widely regarded as a right of passage for teenagers. It’s a time when they may push boundaries more, assert their independence, and navigate the delicate balance between adolescence and adulthood. The potential to drive parents and caring adults crazy is off the charts. But it�

What is toxic achievement culture and how can we help? Can achievement really be toxic? Jennifer Breheny Wallace says that achievement turns toxic when it becomes the sole determinant of one’s value and identity. In many middle and high schools (and even elementary schools), the pressure of achievement culture has reached alarming levels, leaving a trail of behavioral and mental

Creating a welcoming environment sets the tone. In episode 156 of the Teen Life Podcast, we explore the significance of fostering a welcoming environment not just at the door, but throughout our Teen Life groups or church small groups. In our journey to create spaces where teens feel valued and supported, every detail matters. Let’s delve into some actionable tips that can make a

Unlocking Success for Students Below Grade Level Report cards and grades have traditionally been our primary understanding of our children’s academic progress. Grades don’t always provide the full picture, however. That’s where Go Beyond Grades comes in. Go Beyond Grades is a national campaign aimed at bridging the gap between how parents’ think their kids are doing and the

How can we foster positive social media etiquette? Social media has undeniably become an integral part of our lives, especially for teenagers who often find themselves navigating its complexities daily. Unfortunately, as much as it can be a platform for connection and inspiration, it can also be a breeding ground for toxicity and negativity. As parents and caring adults, it’s i

Helping teens understand how credit cards work. We want to equip our teens with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complexities of the adult world. One crucial area often overlooked in these conversations is financial literacy, specifically understanding how credit cards work.  Also in this episode: - What is test anxiety; who is most susceptible; what are the sy

Do you know when reporting abuse is required and where to turn? As parents and caring adults, one of our most important responsibilities is ensuring the safety and well-being of the teenagers in our lives. Unfortunately, there are times when teens may be subjected to various forms of abuse or neglect, which can have long-lasting and devastating effects on their physical and emotio

. . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - The Guardian: From bone smashing to chin extensions: how ‘looksmaxxing’ is reshaping young men’s faces - TikTok: Mewing - VeryWell Health: What Is Mewing and Can It Reshape My Face? - Mogwarts - Give to Teen Life! (send Caleb to Mogwarts) - Truth: Truth Initiative: Zyn Facts - Merriam-Webster: Self-Esteem Definition

Celebrating 150 Episodes with 15 Reasons to Love Teens! We believe that teens are amazing for who they are becoming, but also for who they are right now! To celebrate our 150th episode, we wanted to take a minute to remember some of the top reasons we love being around teenagers. What would you add to the list?  Also in this episode: - The latest in TikTok dating advice - If you