Times are changing – radically – and impacting our youth.
The Internet has become a constant source of input, through videos, podcasts and social media, influencing our teens and preteens, and in many cases competing with the values of their parents. Phones constantly in hand, young people struggle to stay present, their focus often split between the person speaking to them and their vibrating device.
How does a parent begin to address this challenge? In my experience, the tricky part lies in the parent’s own ambivalence about the distractions pulling on them. Newsfeeds, text messages, social media alerts and phone calls can interrupt at any time. Our lives have become defined by our constant connectedness, our identity tied into staying abreast of the information flooding in.
Yet, the vulnerability of youth lies in the undefined sense of self that is easily influenced by outside input. They do not, as yet, have the filters to sort through and digest the daily barrage of information they are being exposed to. Body image, gender identity, core values, and life goals are being formed through this firehose delivery of unfiltered data. In days gone by, parents were more able to observe and dialogue with their teen about topics they were being exposed to. Today, it’s happening at lightening speed, 24/7, and often without the parents’ knowledge.
This is why there is great value in having a neutral adult who has been trained in adolescent development to spend an hour a week helping your child sift through their feelings and thoughts. Teaching your child to be mindful of how they are being affected by the world around them, as well as how to slow down and respond in ways that are healthy can be the difference between a child who tips over, and one who sails through adolescence.
I offer a FREE Initial Parent Consultation to confirm that I am a good match for your family. During this time, I will do a thorough assessment of the situation to give you my most helpful recommendations. You will get an immediate and direct experience of the value I provide.
Menu of Services Offered:
- Free Initial Consultation >
- Effective Parenting Classes >
- Adolescent Counseling 11-18 >
- Social Skills Assessment & Coaching >
- Young Adult Life Skills Coaching 19-24 >
Taking the Trouble out of the Teen Years
www.sandradupont.com
Providing service for: Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Culver City, Los Angeles, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Mar Vista, and Topanga Canyon.