INLCUSION
Social inclusion is key during this time in a child’s development. The biggest lesson to teach your child about inclusion is that people that aren’t like themselves aren’t wrong, they’re just different. These differences lead to diversity and that is what makes everyone unique and special. Providing a diverse environment can help children be more accepting of other children’s differences. This can be as small as trying new foods for dinner once a week or as big as immersing yourself in a different culture so your child can recognize differences. Encouraging open mindedness and acceptance of others can promote inclusion. This can start by supporting your own child’s individuality and that their different appearance and personality are what makes them special. Encouraging your child to reach out to those who are not like them is a key for inclusion.
THINGS TO TRY
TRY A NEW ACTIVITY
The more activities joined, the greater amount that a child will be exposed to a new group of people. The more diverse set of friendships a child has, the more inclusive they are.
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TALK TO SOMEONE NEW
Make it a challenge to talk to someone new every day or week. Writing down the what makes them unique or different is important in embracing all different types of people.
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STAND UP
It is important to stick up for someone who is being excluded or bullied by a group of people. Lead by example. If other people see this happening it will become a new norm to be more accepting of all people.
REACH OUT
Ask questions about a difference you observe in someone else. The more knowledge about different people, the more likely to be inclusive.
PEER PRESSURE
Peer pressure and a child’s susceptibility increases as they age and increase their social circle. It becomes more and more important to kids to want to fit in and be liked. With an increase in bullying at this age, kids believe that if they don’t do what everyone else does, they will be made fun of or not fit in with the group. Peer pressure comes when a peer pressures a child to do something they are uncomfortable with or don’t feel ready for. It is hard to define and point out in most situations which makes it hard to pinpoint and stop. Some tips to deal with peer pressure is the emphasis on a gut feeling. Planning for possible situations makes it easier for a child to turn down pressure or say no to something. Finding friends who feel the same as you is also a really important aspect of avoiding and sticking up to peer pressure. Focus on friends who will speak up for you when you need support. As a parent, make sure your child knows that they can always come to you and ask for help when they are struggling or have struggled with conforming to peer pressure.
FIND NEW FRIENDS
Being able to say no to a situation you are uncomfortable with is harder if you are the only one doing it. If you find yourself continuously being pressured to do things you don't want to, find new friends with similar values as you.
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TALK TO SOMEONE YOU TRUST
It's easier to handle the effects of peer pressure if you are not the only one who has to suffer from it. Talking to someone about it will bring the pressure off of you.
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PLAN AHEAD
Having a plan for different situations you may find yourself in makes it easier to stick to your values and say no. Finding excuses that allows you to say no will take the focus off you.
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THINGS TO TRY
NEGATIVE EFFECTS
This age is a critical time kids have between knowing about risky behaviors and trying them. Teaching children about the effects of alcohol, smoking, and drugs is critical at this age to prevent future use. Alcohol effects a person’s ability to make good decisions, this is especially harmful for a young brain that is still developing the ability to make decisions. The brain is still developing into early adulthood, drinking alcohol may affect the brain’s ability to develop to its full potential. Smoking and tobacco use can cause long term effects such as cancers and heart disease. None of these substances have any beneficial effect on the body and cause short- and long-term harmful effects on the growing body. Making responsible choices about alcohol and drugs at this age should be emphasized and encouraged.
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
CHANGES IN BRAIN DEVELOPMENT AND FUNCTION
INFLAMMATION OF BRAIN
LOSS OF MEMORY
ALTERED JUDGEMENT & EMOTIONS
INCREASED RISK OF ACCIDENTS
RISK OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE​
EFFECTS OF DRUGS
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RISK FOR ADDICTION
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SUDDEN HEART FAILURE
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LEGAL PROBLEMS
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ALTERED JUDGEMENT & EMOTIONS
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INCREASED RISK OF ACCIDENTS
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RISK OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE​
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