22/10/2024
With the long break from school which has just began, it is important to shed some light on the peer pressure our kids may experience during the holidays. Especially with our older children and the adolescents.
Last week I took time to mentor schools and help the pupils and students come up with a plan for the holiday as well as mentor on some of the activities they can engage in. While we have quite a number of lists why we wish schools were not closed as parents, it is important to remember that the holidays aren't just stressful for you as parents, they are actually stressful for children too.
While most of the parents are going to send their children to visit their relatives, I hope we are aware of peer influence/pressure. These are not just friends but relatives too. Many times, kids are trying so hard to fit in and be liked that they can lose sight of who they truly are and who has their best interest in mind. Teaching kids independence and that it is ok to say ”no” are crucial.
There are many types of peer pressure. Some peer pressure can result in negative outcomes, some can result in positive outcomes. More often than not, we associate peer pressure with the negative outcomes. For kids, the positive peer pressure can lead to good outcomes such as going to the gym, leading to better health and stress relief, studying harder at school or attending college. Nonetheless, the word ‘pressure’ has a negative connotation. It is still peer pressure whether negative or positive outcomes result. That said, it is important to speak to your child about being independent in their thoughts, actions and goals and above all, what it means to be a true friend.
Getting caught up with the wrong crowd is undesirable and can lead to bad life decisions. Let your child know you are willing to be their sounding board and the safe place they so desire and search for. Be a friend, but above all, be their role model and teach them that it’s ok to be different. Teach your kids how to handle peer pressure. Know their peer groups and spend time with them and their peers.
During this holiday, observe your child’s interactions whether if it’s with family members or friends. The holidays can be a vulnerable time for some. We often get wrapped up in the busyness of it all that we forget our kids are exposed to stressful situations.