Child Development: High School Children

2008 February 10 by: Scott

Social Development

High school students begin to become more accepting of people who are different from them.

High school students begin to open their social group to include others who they were once uncomfortable being with.

High school students will begin to search for the right answers. They will also seek out other adult input when the adult is non-judgmental, over-reactive and willing to listen.

Parents should:

Continue to communicate with the high school child to discuss current friends, dating, peer pressure and life choices.
Help your high school child plan acceptable social activities. Parents who want to help their child plan a party in their home must also help the child understand that the parent may be liable if an injury occurs or a community law is broken.

Plan larger social activities with other parents who can help monitor the social gathering with you. It’s wise to limit the number of high school students who attend a gathering in a home. Do not provide alcohol or allow high school students to drink alcohol in your home. It is against the law and parents can be legally charged and prosecuted.

Avoid picking your child’s friends for him or her. Your child will most likely continue to “hang” with this friend in other places that you have no control over. If you disapprove of one of your child’s friends because they do not follow the values that you are trying to instill in your child, speak to your child alone about your concern. Be specific. For example: “I am concerned about you being with this person because she smokes. How is her smoking affecting you?” Stay calm and avoid being judgmental. Most children overtime conform and adhere to the values that the parent instills in them.

Parenting can be one of the greatest rewards that one may experience in a lifetime. The more you know about your child’s developmental stages in life, the greater chance you have in succeeding as a parent!