Make Today Matter Mini Makeover Catalog

Mini Makeover #031

Studies have shown close connections and open communication with children are the most important factors for emotional health. Effective communication also helps children make the right choices at critical junctures. Yet today’s kids are growing up in a different world as revealed in a report by the Congressional Quarterly citing top disciplinary programs in schools:

40 years ago                    Today

Gum                                      Drugs and alcohol
Noise                                     Assault / school safety
Running in the halls            Robbery
Dress code                            Suicide
Littering                               Pregnancy

I interviewed kids between the ages of 8 and 14 and asked them: How can parents help support you? How can we improve our communication? What outdated methods do we use that drive you crazy? In this Mini I’ll share the five tips kids have for parents to help us understand their world and support them through close connections.