The issues and decisions youth face today are much
different than those of twenty years ago. To help your child make
healthy lifestyle decisions, try these tips to support the emotional,
spiritual, and physical wellness of youth in our community.
Support
Make time every day to talk with your child.
Ask questions. Don't settle for "fine" as a response
to "How was your day?"
Build a group of friends and extended family
to help provide love and support.
Boundaries
Negotiate appropriate discipline with your child
when boundaries are crossed — then follow through.
Talk with other parents to establish consistent
boundaries among your child's peers.
Structured activities
Plan family activities that provide everyone
with exercise and enjoyment.
Make it possible for your child to participate
in arts, sports, recreational, religious, and other constructive
activities.
Volunteer to be a coach, sponsor, or youth program
leader.
Eat meals together and make mealtime pleasant
with conversation and sharing.
Educational commitment
Make homework, school activities, and planning
for future education a priority.
Get involved in your child's school through the
parent-teacher organization, as a volunteer, or other ways.
Social competencies
Provide opportunities for your child to learn
life skills by empowering them to make family decisions.
Nurture your child's self-esteem and sense of
hope. Offer meaningful praise when warranted.
Be a role model for integrity, honor, and compassion.
Health
Is your teen getting enough sleep?
Most don't. Eight hours a night is the minimum and many teens
require more. Insist on a regular bedtime, especially during
the week.
Do you know what your teen eats? Because they
are so busy, many don't eat well. Stress the importance of good
nutrition,
especially during these years when their bodies are growing
so rapidly.
Well-child check-ups are still important. Make
sure you schedule an annual appointment for your teen.
For more information on Teen
Health or for a complete list of community health education
offerings, visit our calendar
of events.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
