Page 35 - Blue Valley News August/September 2021

TODAY’S CHILD

should consider ignoring them. This provide a wealth of information, false and
may lead to a decrease in the particular true, that may need further discussion.
behaviour and also help in giving space to • It is crucial to value the peer support system
each other. of the teen. Parents should encourage
teens who are introverts to keep in touch
Teens with their peers and communicate with
Apart from the areas discussed above, certain them about their feelings and common
areas which need special focus in the teenage problems they face. This may also assist in
phase are described below: developing appropriate problem-solving • Marital, Couples & Family
later in life. Therapy
• Parents are the best role models for teens • As impossible as it sounds, excessive • Counselling Children,
and home is the best place to learn the life internet use should be avoided as it results Adolescents & Adults
skills. Hence, this is a great time for parents in anxiety. Try and negotiate screen time • “Teen” Challenges
to model the most important life skills... limits even though this is a very difficult • Behavioural & Adjustment
such as coping with stress, coping with arena to step into. Challenges
emotions and problem-solving with their • As parents, we need to take our own • Stress-Related Challenges
children. Wonderful learning can take place mental health requirements seriously and • Adjustment to Depression &
concerning how mom and dad handle try to cope with stress adaptively. Anxiety
disappointments and uncertainties more • Subject & Career Counselling
positively. For each disappointment and Long-term consequences of the • Psychometric Testing
uncertainty, there should be an alternative. pandemic on children is unclear.
Instil a sense of control whenever possible. Based on my reading, it is too soon to know For an appointment please call
Parents can include teens in the decision- about the long-term effects of COVID on 083 376 1995
making process, especially in matters childrens’ and teens’ mental health. But all
related to them. the studies state that a return to routine and Fees are charged according to Scale of
• Teens are expected to have better structure, and freedom to see friends and do Benefits
knowledge about COVID-19 than young more things, will help. Until then, we need to
children. Therefore, communication needs remain calm and do what we can to mitigate Pr. Nr. 0860000114022
to be more open and non-directive. As the fallout. BV Reg. No.: PS 0080543
parents, we need to remember their peers

BLUE VALLEY NEWS • Issue 4 2021 • 33