Loyola School Telco helps parents understand challenges of adolescence
PINAKI MAJUMDAR Jamshedpur, September 12: Helping parents better understand the emotional and behavioural world of teenagers, Loyola School, Telco, organised an interactive…
PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, September 12: Helping parents better understand the emotional and behavioural world of teenagers, Loyola School, Telco, organised an interactive session, “Understanding Adolescents,” for parents of students of Classes IX and X.
The session, led by renowned psychologist and resource person Rev. Fr. Dr Joseph Mathew, focused on several challenges associated with adolescence, including emotional changes, academic pressure, parent-child relationships, peer influence and the growing use of digital platforms.
Parents urged to listen with patience and empathy
Fr. Joseph emphasised that adolescence is a crucial phase of personality and character development and urged parents to respond to their children with patience, empathy and understanding.
He encouraged parents to listen to their children without immediately judging them or resorting to punishment, particularly when they make mistakes.
He stressed that the foundation of character is laid at home and that parents remain the first and most influential role models for their children.
Fr. Joseph also urged parents to look beyond academic and professional success and focus on nurturing individuals who contribute positively to society and make life better for others.
Children learn from parents’ actions
Fr. Gerry, administrator and treasurer, reinforced the message with relatable examples from everyday life, pointing out that children often learn more from what their parents do than from what they say.
He highlighted the importance of parents demonstrating respectful, responsible and appropriate behaviour in their daily interactions.
Healthy digital habits stressed
Responsible use of technology also formed an important part of the discussion. Parents were advised to lead by example by adopting healthy digital habits and helping their children maintain a balance between screen time and activities such as outdoor play, friendships and face-to-face social interaction.
The interactive format enabled parents to openly discuss concerns related to academic expectations, career choices, competition among peers and the changing emotional needs of teenagers.
The session concluded with an emphasis on strengthening the partnership between parents and the school to help adolescents grow into confident, responsible and emotionally resilient individuals.
