Managing the Middle

Middle School is tough. These resources are designed to help parents navigate these years with their young people.

Heroes and Villains
Thinking about heroes and villains is important for teenagers as it helps them understand complex moral concepts and develop empathy. For example, narratives involving heroes and villains can teach teens… Read More
What is Holiness?
Understanding holiness is vital for teenagers, especially within a Catholic context. It instills a deep sense of spiritual identity and purpose, guiding them to live in alignment with their faith.… Read More
Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is a crucial aspect of adolescent development. Studies indicate that self-awareness can significantly improve mental health outcomes for teenagers. For instance, teenagers who practice mindfulness and self-reflection tend to… Read More
Gifts
Recognizing their unique talents and gifts is crucial for teenagers. Studies show that students who feel their talents are recognized are more likely to have higher self-esteem and motivation. For… Read More
Social Awkwardness (due to lack of contact)
Social awkwardness in teenagers, often due to lack of social contact, is a growing concern. Studies indicate that approximately 9.1% of adolescents experience social anxiety disorder, with symptoms peaking during… Read More
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common issue among teenagers, with nearly one in three adolescents experiencing an anxiety disorder. This has been on the rise, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased… Read More
Career
Two in five students aged 15 across OECD countries report having no clear career plans. This uncertainty can lead to stress and anxiety, impacting their mental health. Additionally, 45% of… Read More
Self-Image
About one-third to one-half of adolescents struggle with low self-esteem. This issue is often exacerbated by social media, which can create unrealistic standards of beauty and success. Low self-esteem in… Read More
Big Questions
Teenagers often grapple with profound questions about identity, purpose, and belonging. For instance, 70% of teens report feeling pressure to figure out their future career paths, while 60% ponder their… Read More
Reading
Less than 20% of U.S. teens report reading a book, magazine, or newspaper daily for pleasure. This decline in reading for pleasure is concerning, especially as teens today spend more… Read More
Pornography Addiction
According to a recent survey, around 73% of teenagers have watched online pornography, with the average starting age being 12 years old. This early exposure can lead to addiction, which… Read More