"Send Ben a text"

Humans NEED Connection

Being connected a fundamental human need. 

One of the struggles that we've been facing over the years in education is a lack of connection. One of the struggles that I believe is facing families is a lack of connection.

And, I believe that we are starting to see the consequences. 

Schools are focusing more and more on academics and results. Covid has made things tough. Phones, electronics, and social media are all competing for our attention and our teen's attention. 

But hope is not lost, you can still connect!

A Message to Schools 

I know it's tough. I know you are being measured by your ability to help kids achieve certain standards and benchmarks.

I know oftentimes you are asked to work with your hands figuratively tied behind your back. 

But YOU still have the power to connect with teens. 

In fact, I promise you, the better you connect with your teens and students, the better they will achieve in academic settings.

I am not asking you to abandon educational standards, but I am asking you to start with a focus on your connection and relationship with your students. 

Get to know your teens, as they are, without trying to change, fix, or improve them. 

Help them know that they are awesome, just the way they are. 

A Message to Parents

I know it often doesn't seem like it, but your teen wants to connect with you. 

Possibly more accurately, they want YOU to connect with them. 

Find ways to connect with them right where they are.

Find ways to connect with them right as they are.

Most parents make the mistake of trying to change, fix, or control their teens. Instead of connection, this actually causes a disconnect. 

If you're like most parents, you've probably tried to change, fix, or control your teen and it's resulted in frustration, anger, and resentment, which often leads to fighting and arguing. 

Instead, I invite you to find a way to connect with your teen right where they are. 

What is something that your teen values that you could value?

When I was a teen, football was the thing I valued most. 

My parents, grandparents, and my favorite teachers understood this. So, they often went to my games and talked to me about my games afterwards. 

I know moms and dads who have started playing Fortnite and Minecraft with their teens, just so they can connect with them. 

A Message to Communities

We need our teens. Their mental and emotional health should be one of our top priorities as a community. Find a way to support your local teens. 

Go to their sporting events. Go to their plays and competitions. 

Create opportunities for teens to create connections within your communities that will live long after their high school days are over. 

If You'd Like Me To Speak at Your School and/or Community Event

If you'd like me to speak at your school or community event, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

Call to ACTION!

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