Dating violence is a serious concern for today's teens and parents. According to the National Youth Violence Prevention Center, about 20% of teens have experienced abuse in a dating relationship. Parents often under estimate their influence on teens when it comes to dating and sex. But parents play a vital role in helping teens recognize the red flags of an unhealthy relationship and ending an abusive relationship. When you talk frequently and openly with your teens, they are more likely to turn to you in a time of crisis. The following tips and strategies can help you open the lines of…
Eighty-two percent of 18 to 30 year olds expect to be married for life. Researchers have found that the building blocks of healthy adult marriages are formed during the teenage years. Parents may be nervous about talking to their teens about relationships or marriage, but they are a critical influence in their teen's life. When asked "Who influences you most when it comes to your dating relationships?" teens named their parents first (35 percent). Parents' values seem to be related to teen values and, subsequently, teen behaviors. Show your teen you care, listen respectfully to his or her…
This information sheet discusses how biological fathers can rebuild their relationship with their children. Fathers are urged to reach out to a mentor to help them become a loving father and engage in the following strategies: be involved with children as much as possible, show acceptance of children for who they are rather than only for what they do, demonstrate affection through loving words or appropriate touch, and be consistent in personal characteristics and fathering habits. Discussion questions are listed, as well as suggested actions, movies, and books.
Esta hoja informativa trata de cómo los padres biológicos pueden reconstruir su relación con sus hijos. Se insta a los padres a acudir a un mentor para que les ayude a convertirse en un padre cariñoso y a poner en práctica las siguientes estrategias: involucrarse con los niños tanto como sea posible, mostrar aceptación de los niños por lo que son y no sólo por lo que hacen, demostrar afecto a través de palabras cariñosas o toques apropiados, y ser coherente con las características personales y los hábitos de paternidad. Se incluyen preguntas para el debate, así como sugerencias de acciones…
Long distance relationships are more common than ever. Reasons for this include technological advancements that allow for communication without being face-to-face, the popularity of online dating, and a rise in work related travel and military deployment. Maintaining an intimate bond with your partner while many miles separate the two of you is a challenge. This tip sheet offers ways in which couples can establish clear expectation and boundaries to stay connected and ensure that they maintain a satisfying relationship. (Author abstract modified)
Other, Fact Sheet
Divorce can be a big challenge for both children and parents. Though times may be difficult, children can emerge feeling loved and supported. You can all grow through these family changes and discover just how strong you really are. You are not alone. Family, friends, neighbors, and others are there to offer support. Here are some tools to help your child through your divorce.(Author abstract)
This fact sheet provides parents with helpful tips on how to discuss and prevent teen pregnancy with their adolescent children. Tips include communication strategies, making expectations clear, and setting limits.
This fact sheet offers tips to divorcing or separating parents on how to support their children's well-being through the separation process.Note: PDF version available.
This fact sheet provides facts for parents about HIV/AIDS and provides parents with age-appropriate tips for talking about sexuality, drug use, and how they relate to HIV/AIDS.Note: PDF version available.
This fact sheet provides information for parents on how to talk to their preteen or teen about sexuality, including understanding adolescent's concerns and how parents can help adolescents develop healthy sexuality.Note: PDF version available.
