(Excerpted from our book, Lost My Partner – What’ll I Do?)
In Part 1 of these excerpts, we suggested ways to ease your school-age child’s return to the classroom. There are, however, some important differences to be aware of with teens.
Because it’s not uncommon for teenagers to react to the death of a parent with behavioral problems at school such as poor performance or truancy, it’s important to:
a) Talk to your teen about what’s happened and how it’s affected them.
In Part 1 of these excerpts, we suggested ways to ease your school-age child’s return to the classroom. There are, however, some important differences to be aware of with teens.
Because it’s not uncommon for teenagers to react to the death of a parent with behavioral problems at school such as poor performance or truancy, it’s important to:
a) Talk to your teen about what’s happened and how it’s affected them.
b) Listen to his/her fears and concerns and be reassuring but truthful in your response.
c) Ask your teenager if he/she would like you to inform the school or any teacher about the death. This is to ensure that the teacher will be understanding of the change in behavior and school work.
d) Let your teen tell classmates and friends in his/her own way, if they prefer to do so.
Remember that no matter how much they pull away from you because they’re adolescents, there are still times they need to depend on you.
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