Hello Everyone! I hope all is well with you today! I wrote this blog post about three years ago and I thought it was important enough to share again. So, even though some of the info is a little dated. It’s still relevant today. :)
I’m back today and I’d like to just touch on some of the teen issues that I’ve discussed in the past, for example, bullying behavior, teen depression, and teen pregnancy. What I’d like to touch on is a possible solution to these problems. :)
All of these behaviors are a result of pressures that the young adults feel during these tumultuous years. These years are filled with new challenges and new emotions and this is the first time teens are testing their boundaries. These are exciting and frightening times for them.
So, it’s not surprising that they make some incorrect choices. :) In the past, I’ve said that parental involvement and keeping kids active in sports are ways to combat some of these negative choices. I still believe that parental involvement is very important in developing positive behaviors, but what about the kids who aren’t interested in sports? Some kids just don’t have any inclination in that direction.
Well, I’ve thought about this and I’ve discovered a solution. :) You knew I had one didn’t you? What about volunteering? That’s right. I came across a wonderful organization that encourages teens to volunteer and I’m very impressed by it.
In fact, I’m working with them on a project and I’m very excited about it! But, there will be a whole blog post about that as soon as we get all the details ironed out. :) So stay tuned for that. :) The organization is called VOLUNTEENATION and here’s the link to their website. Check it out! http://www.volunteennation.org/. This is a national organization which means they have volunteer opportunities all throughout the United States.
I’m sure you all have heard one of the best ways to combat depression is by helping others…I believe this applies to teenagers as well and that’s what volunteering is all about.
What I love about this organization is that teens are working with other teens in a positive situation. They aren’t at home closed off in their rooms brooding about their problems. Volunteering takes their focus off of their problems and gets them moving in a positive direction. In my opinion, this might lead to more fulfilling friendships because teens are working together toward a common goal.
Another positive effect this type of organization has is that there are certainly instances where teens can utilize/learn leadership skills as well as team building skills. :) Skills that are necessary for the working environment. :)
Maybe if we got our kids involved in volunteering we’d have fewer disasters like Columbine and Newtown. Something to think about my friends. :)
Check out Volunteenation’s blog. Here’s a post about how teens can support the Newtown victims. http://www.volunteennation.org/blog/categories/latest-news/203-how-youth-Lican-support-newtown
I can’t say enough about this organization; it’s getting teens headed in the right direction. :)
Thanks for reading my post today! I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment and let me know what you think! :)
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE! I HOPE 2013 IS YOUR BEST YEAR YET!