Teens and Volunteering

Especially at the holidays, it is a great time to encourage your teens to get involved with volunteerism. 

Community service hours are usually required for high school graduation, but more important than that is the giving back to others and the self-esteem it can bring to your teenager.

Here are some ideas to give to your teen:

• Informal volunteering. Your teen watches a neighbor’s kids or joins a group of students who are cleaning up a park.

These activities are the easiest to find. They don’t require a long-term commitment. They may whet your teen’s interest to get more involved.

•  Formal volunteering. Many teens have a regular volunteer job. They help at a food bank. They tutor a younger student.

These activities teach responsibility—teens have to show up when they say they will. They often help teens decide whether they want a career in this field.

• In-school clubs. From foreign language clubs to yearbook, sports to music, there are clubs for every interest.

Many schools have clubs that are organized to provide service. Groups like Key Club and student government can help students help others.

• Community organizations. Many out-of-school clubs offer teens a chance to learn and grow. Most religious organizations offer activities for youth. Teens might also think about Girl and Boy Scouts, 4-H, DeMolay and community sports organizations.

Source © 2013 Parent Institute

Sue Scheff: Teens and Government

January 27th, 2010, at 9:00pm EST, President Obama hit the airwaves. Many people watched it and others chose not to.

It has been a difficult year for many families, economically, health care issues, war, and natural disasters. Many parents encourage their teenagers to listen and understand, and ironically, many teens attempt to get their parents to engage.

What exactly do your kids know about government and how it works? During these times of struggles, it may be an opportunity to sit down and talk about how our government can work or not work for you. Many students will learn their basic guide to the U.S. Government, but how many have families sit down and discuss politics?

During the election year there seemed to be more chatter than in years past with the candidates and the influx of social media which most likely contributed to many young interested parties.

Tonight will you be watching? Will your children? Will you be able to answer their questions or can you engage in a healthy debate? No matter what your party is, being together as a family is what is most important. Many families have a combination of Republicans, Democrats, Liberals and Independents.

Teach your children more about government - visit Ben's Guide to the U.S. Government for Kids. Choose your age range and learn more.

For teens grades 9-12, click here. Quick facts about our state of Florida, click here. Are you in another state? Find others here.

Prepare your teens for the future.  Read more on Examiner.