Stay Calm Don't Panic

Why are teens missing so much school? In recent years, chronic absenteeism among students has become a pressing concern, especially with its stark rise since the onset of the pandemic. Defined as missing at least 10% of school days, this issue has significant implications for academic success and overall well-being.  But what’s causing students to miss so much school? What are we missing? We all need to work together to help teens succeed. Here's how.  Also in this episode: What is fanfiction and why are teens so crazy about it? How are fan edits being used, especially on TikTok? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - USAToday: Interested in fan fiction? Here’s what you need to know to start. - Bark: What is Fan Fiction? Here’s Why Kids Are Going Wild for Online Stories - Fanfic Sites: fanfiction.net | Archive of Our Own Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts - Vox: Why so many kids are still missing school - Teen Life Podcast: Parasocial Relationships . . Visit our

What advice would you give your teenage self about dating? Despite vast changes in the romantic landscape, the emotional high of teen romance is universal. If anything, it’s amplified by being constantly connected, a heightened sense of vigilance, and a lack of commitment or trust. Teenagers are dealing with all the dangers and emotional disconnect of a techno world, adding to the emotional stress of being a teenager. So what can parents and other caring adults do to help? Get our top advice for dating teens. Also, in this episode: Palworld is the latest in popular online gaming for teens. Taylor Swift is furious after a social media challenge led to explicit deepfakes of her on Twitter. Apple recently updated everyone’s phone and installed the Journal App, allowing journal entries and photos to be stored behind a password. BeReal streaks- what are they and are they a good thing? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Palworld - Defiance Act of 2024 - NBCNews: Nude deepfake ima

Valentine's Day Date and Gift Ideas for Teenagers. The pressure is on for Valentine's Day, especially when you are a teen and are newly dating. In this episode, we discuss some fun, inexpensive date ideas that focus on having a good time. Also, get some great dating and gift-giving tips! Finally, Tobin shares the best plan for starting an instrument for the first time. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Valentine Date Ideas: Melting Pot | Main Event . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support

What you should know about parental rights and teen responsibilities when your teen turns 18. When teens turn 18, it is cause for celebration! Parents and teens alike can pat themselves on the back for having made it to this point! This milestone brings about significant changes in the dynamics of your relationship with your child. Here’s a guide on how to deal with these changes while considering parental rights, teen rights, and adjustments in your parenting style.   Also in this episode: Sports betting, terms, and gambling resources. Dungeons and Dragons is becoming mainstream. Here's what you need to know. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Gambling Resources: 1-800-662-4357 - SAMHSA or 1-800-GAMBLER - Gridiron Games: Super Bowl Bingo - Dungeons and Dragons: dndbeyond.com | Movie - Grown and Flown: 50 Things You Can Do When You Turn 18 (Who Knew?) - Lawrence Financial Planning: What You Need To Know When Your Teen Turns 18 - Teen Life Podcast: Sports Betting | Talkin

How do I set healthy cell phone boundaries with my teen?  In the digital age, cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives, especially for teenagers. They serve as a means of communication, entertainment, and learning.  However, as teachers and parents, guiding teens to establish healthy boundaries with their cell phones is crucial for their overall well-being and development. So what are the basic boundaries we should be setting? Read more about cell phone boundaries and why your teen isn't responding to your texts. Also in this episode: Why your teen isn't responding when you text them. Teen terms we just learned that will make you laugh. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - The New York Times: What Students Are Saying About Ignoring Text Messages - EdWeek: Cellphone Bans Can Ease Students’ Stress and Anxiety, Educators Say - Teen Life TikTok - Teen Life Podcast: Cell Phones | Bark . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episod

Navigating Talkative Teens in Group Settings Dealing with talkative teens in a group or class setting can be challenging, but understanding the reasons behind their behavior and implementing effective strategies can create a positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved.  Join us as we explore the reasons why teens tend to overshare or talk too much and provide practical tips for teachers, group facilitators, and youth workers to redirect and engage these talkative teens. Get tips on how to manage teens who dominate the conversation.  Also in this episode: What is the Ahead App and will it really transform your life? Blind boxes and chase figures – what are they and why are they so popular? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Ahead: App | Self-Awareness Test - Blind Box Mentions: Blind Boxes | Mini Brands | FIFA | MLB the Show | Madden | CSGo (Counter-Strike) | Lootbox - VeryWellMind: Excessive Talking in Children with ADHD - YouthWorker: Dealing with a Talkative Teen

What's the deal with kids fighting at school and how can we help? Fighting at school causes problems for students, teachers, and the parents of those involved. It's easy to write some kids off as "trouble," but in our experience, the right adult intervention can make a huge difference. Also in this episode: - Was Helen Keller actually blind and deaf? Teens don’t think so. - Twitch is changing its sexual content policy and homepage recommendations. Listen for more on what you need to know. - How teens and adults can improve their relationship. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcaster

Teens with a mission are teens with a purpose. Listen for tips on helping teensfind meaningful ways to spend their time, help their community, and improve their mental health.  We also talk about seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. If less daylight and colder days get you down, you are not alone! We have tips for lifting your mood. Plus catch our 2023 year in review! We talk about the things that affected us, and teens, the most over the past year. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Teen Life Dinner Video: Empowering Students at Boswell HS - Teen Life Podcast: ⁠Roman Empire + Eras Tour⁠ | ⁠Girl Math⁠ | ⁠Barbenheimer⁠ | ⁠Depression⁠ - Nemours TeensHealth: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - Podcast: How You and Your Family Can Live a Richer Story in 2020 | Family On Mission with Sarah Brooks . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow U

In this episode from 2016, Heather and Jade join the podcast to talk about their stories both separately and as they intertwine. As a young teen mom, Jade looked to Heather for support and encouragement. With her oldest son now in college, Heather was able to provide hope and a new perspective through the lens of her own teen pregnancy. You won’t want to miss this episode on the joys and challenges of teen parenthood. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Pregnancy Help 4 U - If you are someone who works with student-aged parents, reach out to program@teenlife.ngo for more information about our Support Group Curriculum designed for teen parents! . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fan

Join us for a jolly good time talking about Christmas traditions, gifts, and Santa for teens. Chris is back for a special Christmas episode where the gang tells about their own Christmas traditions, how they manage gifts and expectations, and more. Be sure to listen for Christmas activities teens will enjoy, too! . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support

Navigating the winter break presents distinctive challenges, particularly when teenagers are part of the equation. Questions arise, from managing constant adolescent hunger pangs to handling complex family dynamics. In episode 137 of the Teen Life Podcast, we delve into effortless strategies for traveling with teens. Moreover, we explore what to do (and not to do) in coping with family dynamics. Plus, don’t overlook our savvy fast food tips that won’t strain your wallet. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - TikTok: Wavelength . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support

As winter break approaches, teachers, parents, and students all struggle to finish the semester strong. Kids are crazy. Tired teachers struggle to get all the grades in and contain classrooms of tired, excitable students. It gets dark earlier. How can everyone survive this time of year? Listen for tips on how to help. Also in this episode: The Lapse app, 3rd in the App Store a couple of weeks ago, has now outpaced TikTok and Google. The app mimics a disposable camera that snaps pictures and then has a wait period (as the film "develops") before you can view them. States across the US have filed a lawsuit against Meta saying that Meta — which owns Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger — violated consumer protection laws by unfairly ensnaring children and deceiving users about the safety of its platforms. It accuses Meta of having profoundly altered the psychological and social realities of a generation of young Americans. Not everyone participates in Christmas, but there are many winter holid

. . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Amazon Wish List - Teen Life Merch Store (closes 11/30 at midnight) - Homage - Teen Life Podcast: Top Teen Things | 2022 Gift Guide | 2021 Gift Guide . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support

Families eating together are a powerful antidote to insecurity, unhealthy diets, and disconnection. In this week's episode, we offer tips for making the magic happen. We’ll also share Thanksgiving traditions and foods that the whole family will love! . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Parents.com: 7 Science-Based Benefits of Eating Together as a Family . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Duke & Kelly Fann --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teenlifepodcast/support

Are you ready for your child's first cell phone? What's the best way to approach your child's first phone? Get tips for deciding when your teen is ready for a smartphone. We'll also look at what to talk about before giving your teen new tech, as well as options for what to give.  Also in this episode: - New features on Snapchat - Trending teen hairstyles for boys and girls . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Snapchat Family Center - WFAA: He served a 2-week suspension for his hair. When he returned with the same hairstyle, he was suspended again - Forbes: What Is The Best Age For A Child’s First Smartphone? - WaitUntil8th: Smartphone Alternatives . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produced by: Karlie Du

How do I talk about violence and political issues with teens? Talking about violence and political issues with our teenagers can be challenging. If your child (or one of their friends) has a cell phone they are inevitably exposed to a multitude of complex and often distressing topics. Also in this episode: The use, misuse, and the shortage of Adderall Digital SATs take center stage What is Spotify JAM and why should you use it? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Spotify: Jam - CollegeBoard: Digital SAT - The Teen Magazine: Everything You Should Know About the Digital SAT - NBC News: Up to 1 in 4 students misuse ADHD drugs, study finds - Time: One Year Later, Where’s All the Adderall? - Shoreline Recovery Center: Adderall Addiction and Misuse Among Teens - Instagram: @drbeckyatgoodinside - Teen Life Podcast: Gun Violence | How to Talk About School Shootings - Teen Life Blog: Shifting Gears: Restoring Hope in an Anxious World | Combating Fear in the Face of School Shootings . .

One trusted adult in a teen's life can make all the difference. But what makes a trusted adult and how can we connect teens with them? We take a look at qualities to look for and give specific examples of ways to point teens toward people who have them. Also in this episode: Olivia Rodrigo is back in the limelight with the release of her second album, GUTS Teen Term: Fax, No Printer NPC streams are increasing in popularity, but what are they and why do people watch? . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - NPR - Guts Album - Parent Cue: Why Your Kids Need Five Other Adults in Their Lives - Next Gen Now Podcast: Apple l Spotify - Teen Life Blog: Why Teens Need Caring Adults . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by: Karlie Duke, Caleb Hatchett & Tobin Hodges Produc

Most parents went to school when the options were to pack your lunch or buy it from the school cafeteria. It’s safe to say that times have changed. Today, many schools are managing a different kind of lunch crowd where students order through a food delivery app like Uber Eats or Door Dash and have lunch delivered. Also in this episode: - A super easy, viral recipe to make for dinner tonight - The future of shopping? - Fall entertainment you can enjoy with your teen (or at least sound cool talking about it) . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - Apple: parents guide for five nights at Freddy’s - Washington Post: food delivery at school - CNN: Tik Tok Shop - Newsroom.TikTok: Introducing TikTok Shop - Amazon: Unbrush | Electric Spin Scrubber - Modern Retail: TT Shop Slow Burn . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by

Facing the resistance of the teenage spirit can be an uphill battle without the right perspective. In episode 129 of the Teen Life Podcast, we look at ways to change the way we look at teen back talk so that parents and teens are empowered more and offended less. Also in this episode: Costume ideas and Trunk-or-Treat ideas and predictions AI chatbots take on celebrity personalities And, how teens are viewing sports . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - TechCrunch: MrBeast Deepfake - Meta AI - NBC Sports: TSwift - Chiefs-Jets - Morning Consult: Gen Z Interest in Sports - Forbes: MLB Rule Changes - Sports Illustrated: Nuggets Streaming Battle - PsychologyToday: Adolescence and the age of more “talking back” - TikTok: Talking Back . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tobin Hodges Hosted by:

As parents, educators, and caregivers, it’s hard to keep up with the ever-changing trends and challenges that teenagers face. In episode 128, we explain some of the most prevalent teen trends, from “Girl Math” to the “Spicy Chip Challenge” to “RushTok”. We’ll also discuss the critical issue of teenagers’ body image and offer actionable advice on how to promote healthy self-esteem in teens. . . In this episode, we mentioned the following resources: - TikTok: Girl Math | RushTok - ZM Online: CEOs of Girl Math - NBCDFW: Teen's death leads to outpouring of concern over spicy chip challenge as sales are halted - LATimes: RushTok - HBO Max: Bama Rush - FamilyDoctor.org: Body Image (Children & Teens) - Teen Life Podcast: Eating Disorders | Overeating Disorders | Social Media . . Visit our website: www.teenlifepodcast.com Subscribe to get the episodes in your inbox: www.teenlife.ngo/subscribe Watch the podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠! Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter . . Podcast Music by: Luke Cabrera & Tob