When is it Time to Ask for Help?

A Parent's Guide to Teenage Behavior

It can be hard for a kid to admit when things aren’t okay. If your teen is displaying negative patterns of behavior, they may be trying to communicate through their actions, instead. Research shows that upsetting experiences and stress are often the culprits behind behavioral issues in teens, and just because you can’t always see an underlying cause, doesn’t mean there’s nothing wrong. This guide offers some helpful ways to identify problematic behaviors, understand the effects of highly stressful situations, and help your child cope and move past their experiences in a healthy and proactive way. This assessment is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

“I didn’t want to do it, but living in that environment, I just didn’t think I had any other option.”

Jake was a smart, vibrant teenage boy who had the world going for him. He had friends and good grades and got along well with others. No one on the outside looking in would have guessed that he was at risk for suicide.

Most parents find talking about sex and sexuality with their children intimidating, embarrassing, and even somewhat terrifying. This is a normal way to feel in today’s climate where kids are exposed sexual themes earlier than ever but sex is still a “taboo” subject in everyday conversation.

Raising kids in a sex-positive, open environment can improve your relationship with your child and keep the lines of communication open. Here are a few tips to get the conversation started.

No one likes a micromanager--and that includes kids! Adults can understand how frustrating and damaging a micromanager can be, yet most parents micromanage their children heavily and fail to see why kids grow up to be resentful in the aftermath. 

"My parents don't understand what it's like to be my age."

“They just don’t get it!”

Sound familiar? At the Idaho Youth Ranch, we hear these phrases often. And the truth is, they’re true! 

One of the most common mistakes parents make is attempting to maintain an aura of parental perfection, fearing that either kids will use mistakes against them later, or won’t respect their authority. It can be scary to be vulnerable and “human” in front of your kids by apologizing and admitting fault. But it’s also one of the most important ways you can form a healthy relationship based on mutual respect.

If you’re like most parents, you’ve probably noticed that there seems to be a standardized answer to the following question: “How was your day today?” 

If you’re tired of getting “good” or “fine” as an answer, we’ve got some great questions to help your child open up, spark some fun conversation, and help you learn more about your child’s day!

Did you know that one of the most critical indicators for a child’s success is the kitchen table? Researchers at the National Center for Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found that kids who ate with their families five times a week were far less likely to have problems with substance abuse, and were more likely to earn better grades. 

Is Your Child on Drugs

How well do you know your teenager? When was the last time you had a heart-to-heart conversation about his challenges, hopes, and fears? Would you know if your child was experimenting with drugs or alcohol or even struggling with a substance abuse problem?