3 messages from Daniel Tiger that teens still need
Today is World Teen Mental Health Day, and I think Mr. Rogers would have something to say . . .
When CNN asked if I'd write a piece for World Teen Mental Health Day, my mind went to Fred Rogers (and, by extension, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood). Wait, hear me out!
The first kids who watched Daniel Tiger — like my oldest — are now tweens and teens. And while (thankfully!) I no longer have use for the “Potty Song,” there are core messages in this show that can help adolescents in the midst of our current mental health crisis.
Like these three:
There is power in naming your emotions
What’s mentionable is manageable
You are special, just the way you are
Read the article here — which includes my interview with show creator Angela Santomero.
(Also, when I was finishing this on Monday, I suddenly realized it was the 20th anniversary of Fred Roger’s passing. That very day. I mean . . . )
Your Middle Schooler is Awesome
I also have a piece in CNN about why middle schoolers are amazing. Really. Here’s an excerpt:
“Middle schoolers are a jumble of contradictions and a mystery even to themselves,” Fagell told me, “but that’s what I love about them. Depending on the day — or the minute — a middle schooler can be 14 going on 4 or 14 going on 40. They’re sophisticated and take things in quickly yet aren’t jaded.”
Damour sees this childlike and adultlike combination as a strength. “I love working with middle schoolers because they are as insightful as they are playful, and they are often very playful,” she said.
They may be insecure, Fagell said, but their vulnerability is coupled with empathy for others and a strong desire to please others and make a difference. “They truly believe they can change the world — or at least their school’s dress code — with a well-worded petition. Middle schoolers are unflinchingly honest, which can come off as mean at times, but they’re the funniest humans on the planet.”
Tune in!
On March 15, I’m giving a free, fun 60-minute presentation sponsored by The Parent Venture and San Carlos School District: “Four Insights from Child Development that Made Me a Better Parent”
Click to RSVP and get a link.
Cheers,
Deborah
Deborah Farmer Kris * www.parenthood365.com
P.S. Leaving a link to my picture books here . . . just because :)
I love this so much!